Top 5 Signs Your AC System Needs Service Before Summer Gets Worse

July 7, 2025
Top 5 Signs Your AC System Needs Service Before Summer Gets Worse

Stay Cool and Comfortable with Team Ryan Automotive in Buford and Cumming

Summer in Georgia can be brutal, with scorching temperatures and high humidity creating serious discomfort for drivers across the state. When your vehicle's air conditioning is not performing at its best, every drive can quickly become miserable. But beyond comfort, a properly functioning AC system also plays a role in your safety, especially during long commutes or when you have young children, pets, or elderly passengers in the car. 


At Team Ryan Automotive, with convenient locations in both Buford and Cumming, we help drivers stay ahead of the heat. Our certified technicians specialize in diagnosing and repairing air conditioning systems for all vehicle makes and models. The earlier you catch signs of trouble, the easier it is to avoid costly repairs and uncomfortable drives. Here are five key signs that your AC system needs professional attention. 


1. Weak or No Airflow from Vents 

When you turn on your air conditioning and barely feel any air coming from the vents, it is a red flag that something is wrong. Reduced airflow may be caused by a clogged cabin air filter, a malfunctioning blower motor, or issues within the ventilation system. This issue can make your AC work harder than necessary and lead to bigger problems if not addressed. 


At Team Ryan Automotive, our team inspects and replaces worn-out or dirty filters, tests your blower motor (when recommended), and checks for airflow obstructions. If you are in Buford or Cumming and notice that your vents are not pushing out enough air, let us take a closer look before Georgia’s heat gets worse. 


2. Warm Air Coming Out Instead of Cold 

Perhaps the most obvious sign that your AC needs service is when you turn the dial to cold and only get warm air. This can be especially frustrating when temperatures are in the upper 80s or 90s. The problem often lies in low refrigerant levels, which may indicate a leak somewhere in the system. Other possible culprits include a faulty compressor or a problem with the AC condenser. 


Driving with a failing AC system not only makes for an uncomfortable experience but also puts stress on other parts of your vehicle. If you are experiencing warm air from your vents, schedule an AC performance test with Team Ryan Automotive. We will check refrigerant levels, inspect your system for leaks, and recharge the system as needed. Our Buford and Cumming technicians are ready to help you keep your cool all summer long. 


3. Strange Noises When AC is Running 

Smooth and quiet operation is what you should expect from a healthy air conditioning system. So, if you start to hear grinding, squealing, or rattling when your AC is on, something is definitely off. These sounds may come from a worn-out compressor clutch, a damaged belt, a loose component, or a fan motor starting to fail. 


Unusual noises are often early warning signs that a breakdown is coming. Ignoring them can result in more expensive repairs down the road. At Team Ryan Automotive, our ASE certified technicians will conduct a full inspection and pinpoint the source of the noise. Whether you are in Buford or Cumming, do not wait for the problem to get worse. Let us fix it early and keep your AC running quietly and efficiently. 


4. Unpleasant Smells from the Vents 

If turning on your air conditioner fills your car with a musty, moldy, or sour smell, it is time to take action. These odors often come from bacteria and mold buildup inside the evaporator core or from a dirty cabin air filter. Over time, moisture from your AC system provides the perfect environment for microbial growth, especially in humid climates like Georgia. 


These odors are not just unpleasant. They can be harmful to passengers with allergies or respiratory issues. Team Ryan Automotive offers complete AC sanitizing services to eliminate bacteria and mold from your system. We also replace cabin air filters and clean out your ducts to ensure the air inside your car is fresh and healthy. Whether you are driving in Buford or Cumming, our team has the tools and training to improve the air you breathe. 


5. AC Takes Too Long to Cool the Cabin 

If it feels like your vehicle takes forever to cool down, or if it never really gets cold, your system may be operating below peak efficiency. This can happen when the compressor is beginning to fail, when the condenser is clogged or blocked, or when refrigerant levels are low. Over time, a system that has to work harder will use more energy and wear out more quickly. 


At Team Ryan Automotive, we use advanced diagnostic and testing procedures to assess the performance of your air conditioning system. We evaluate airflow, temperature output, compressor cycles, and overall efficiency. A quick test can reveal the issue and help you avoid uncomfortable drives later in the season. Whether you are in Buford or Cumming, we will make sure your system is cooling as fast and effectively as possible. 

 

Why AC Maintenance Matters in Georgia 

Many drivers only think about their air conditioning when it starts to act up. But regular maintenance is the key to preventing failure during the hottest months of the year. The heat and humidity in Georgia can push your AC system to the limit. That is why we recommend having it inspected each spring or early summer to catch problems before they affect your comfort and safety. 


Our Summer AC Service at Team Ryan Automotive includes: 

  • AC system performance testing 
  • Refrigerant level check and recharge if needed 
  • Visual inspection of all components 
  • Cabin air filter replacement 
  • Leak detection and repair 
  • AC compressor and belt inspection 


This preventative service gives you peace of mind all season and helps extend the life of your vehicle’s air conditioning system. 


Schedule Your AC Service Today in Buford or Cumming 

If you have noticed any of the signs above, do not wait until the next heatwave to take action. Schedule your air conditioning service at Team Ryan Automotive. Our friendly and experienced staff is here to help you stay cool, safe, and comfortable no matter where the road takes you. 



We proudly serve the Buford and Cumming communities with expert service, honest advice, and a commitment to quality that you can trust. Let us keep your car running its best and your AC system working the way it should. 


Call or visit Team Ryan Automotive today to  schedule your Summer AC Service. Your comfort and safety are our top priorities. 

By Shara Ryan January 2, 2026
As we head into the new year, we are kicking things off with exciting news for the Sugar Hill and Suwanee community, because Team Ryan Automotive is officially in town! Since opening our doors in 2015, Team Ryan Automotive has proudly delivered exceptional service and trustworthy repairs in Buford, GA (Gwinnett County) and Cumming, GA (Forsyth County). Today, we are excited to bring that same level of care, expertise, and community commitment to drivers in Sugar Hill and Suwanee with our newest location at 820 Brogdon Rd, Suwanee, GA 30024. Did you know that it's possible to be in Sugar Hill city limits while having a Suwanee address? That's exactly where our Team Ryan Automotive Sugar Hill / Suwanee location is positioned. A Meaningful Transition This new location represents a special passing of the torch. After 26 years in Gwinnett County, John and Lori of J & L Automotive are retiring and entrusting their previous customers to be taken care of into 2026 and beyond by Team Ryan. As a husband and wife team, John and Lori built their business on trust and care. Those same values continue with husband and wife team Dan and Shara of Team Ryan Automotive, making this transition a natural fit and a continuation of a strong local legacy.
By Shara Ryan December 31, 2025
Auto Repair You Can Trust for Every Driver Every driver has different needs, but whet her you’re commuting in a family SUV, managing a fleet truck, driving your first car, or serving the community as a first responder, you deserve an auto repair shop that puts honesty, safety, and expert care first. At Team Ryan Automotive, serving Buford, Cumming, and Sugar Hill / Suwanee, our family-owned shop is built on one promise: Your car. Your needs. Our expertise. For Parents & Family Drivers Your vehicle carries the most important passengers in your life. From school drop-offs to weekend errands, we help keep your car safe and reliable with: Oil changes and fluid checks Brake repairs Tire rotations and alignments AC repairs and multi-point inspections At Team Ryan Automotive, we believe trust starts with transparency. That’s why we never hesitate to walk you out to the shop and show you exactly what’s going on with your vehicle. Seeing an issue firsthand helps ensure clear communication and confident decision-making. We also use Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVI) to keep you fully informed. Each inspection includes: Photos of your actual vehicle Clear descriptions of any recommended maintenance or repairs Honest explanations—no pressure, no surprises You’ll always know what your car needs and why. For Young & New Drivers A first car should come with confidence. We offer: Clear explanations Honest recommendations ASE-certified diagnostics No pressure. No confusion. Just a trusted mechanic you can rely on. For Contractors & Fleet Drivers When your truck is your business, downtime isn’t an option. We provide: Fast diagnostics Brake and suspension repairs Tire services and alignments Routine fleet maintenance We help keep your workday running smoothly. For First Responders & Essential Workers We're honored to support our community heroes with dependable, transparent auto repair you can count on, every visit, every time. Our team has the experience and equipment to service a wide range of vehicles, including: Vehicles up to 15,000 pounds Sprinter vans Emergency and service vehicles Dually trucks and work vehicles Why Drivers Choose Team Ryan Automotive? Family-owned and operated ASE-certified technicians Honest diagnostics, no upsells High-quality parts and repairs Lifetime Warranty on most services Convenient online scheduling Whether you’re searching for auto repair near me, oil change in Buford, or brake repair in Cumming, Team Ryan Automotive is here for you.
By Shara Ryan December 22, 2025
What an incredible season and a moment of pride for the entire Buford community. This championship represents a true dedication to hard work, discipline, and teamwork, and it is a testament to a program that continues to set the standard both on and off the field. At Team Ryan Automotive, we are incredibly proud to be a sponsor of this outstanding program, not only for what these athletes accomplish under the Friday night lights, but for the leadership and character they demonstrate beyond the game. The Buford Wolves consistently show that success is about more than wins and trophies. It is about integrity, accountability, and lifting others up along the way. Earlier this year at a Buford Academy pep rally, the football team took time to personally connect with every child in the room, making each student feel seen and valued. Moments like that show what this program truly stands for. Character. Community. And doing the right thing even when no one is watching. Our son Aidan shared how much it meant to him that he “got to slap hands with the real football team players,” a small moment that left a big impression. Experiences like that inspire younger students and remind all of us how powerful positive role models can be. That spirit of leadership and heart is something our family and our entire team at Team Ryan Automotive align with wholeheartedly. We believe in showing up for our community, supporting one another, and leading by example, values we see reflected so clearly in this program. Well earned, Wolves. Buford is proud of you, and we are honored to stand behind such an incredible team. 💚🏈
Show More