Car AC Repair at BRAKEmax in Catalina, AZ

Our ASE-certified technicians can meet all of your car AC repair needs at our Catalina auto repair location. Without regularly scheduled maintenance, the air conditioning system in your car or truck will lose efficiency every year. You can make sure your AC doesn’t fail when you need it with expert service from our factory-trained team of professionals. 

Keep Cool With Regular AC Inspections

It’s easy to ignore warning signs when you hear a strange noise or the AC is blowing less than cold air. So during a routine inspection of the AC in your vehicle, our ASE- certified technicians will:

  • Check for holes in refrigerant lines, leaks, or damaged hoses
  • Make sure the system’s pressure is correct 
  • Assess the passenger cabin temperature  
  • Check the coolant level; it may only need a car AC recharge
  • Look for wear or damage in the thermostat
  • Check the compressor belt
  • Compare your vehicle’s AC levels to manufacturer’s specifications 

And don’t forget to check our coupon page for savings on your AC service! 

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Pay Attention to These Signs of Trouble in Your AC System

Your car’s AC system is made up of many complex parts working together, such as the compressor, receiver/drier (accumulator), and the orifice tube or expansion valve (filter). Checking the entire system yourself isn’t as easy as checking the oil in the car, for example. Let our AC specialists put their training to work for you as soon as you notice a problem. We can help prevent expensive AC repair later on.

Here are some signs and causes of possible trouble in your AC system:

  • Water in the passenger cabin: Puddles on the floorboard lead to odors and harmful mildew and mold.
  • Fluttering or rattling noises: There might be a foreign object stuck somewhere in the system.
  • Weak airflow: The foreign object might be blocking something important.
  • Tepid or warm air blowing from the vents: The coolant may need to be replenished. 
  • The dashboard indicator light for the AC is on: Check it out.

Take care of your car and your investment in it by checking out trouble signs before any damage is done. It’s best for your comfort and health and it will help retain the value of your car for resale later. It might be as simple as an AC recharge, but if it’s a more complicated repair you need to know that quickly.

FAQ

Can I Repair My Car’s AC System Myself?

Air conditioning systems are complex, so we don’t recommend DIY repairs. Keep in mind that the most challenging part of fixing your car’s AC system on your own is diagnosing the problem correctly in the first place. The second challenge is having the proper tools and equipment on hand to properly fix the problem. You also need to consider the costs of professional repairs if you cause any unnecessary damage to the system above and beyond what the original cost of auto shop repairs might be.

If your car or truck is having AC issues, don’t hesitate to come by our Catalina location: BRAKEmax offers a free AC inspection to determine the problem. It is generally best to let our professional, trained mechanics use their knowledge–and tools!–for a car AC repair. Make an appointment today!

Is Freon Still Used in AC Systems?

Many older cars still use Freon. Car owners can continue to buy Freon until supplies on hand are gone. Once the supply of Freon is gone, older cars will need to be retrofitted to use the newer coolant. Newer models are manufactured to use the more environmentally friendly coolant.

Does BRAKEmax Offer A Full Range Of AC Services?

Yes! Your Catalina BRAKEmax does much more than brakes. Here is what we can do for your car’s AC system:

  • Compressor checks
  • Condenser cleaning
  • Performance tests
  • Leak checks
  • Belt and hose connection checks
  • Complete refrigerant evacuation and recharge

Check for coupons and discounts here now!

What Are Red Flags For Compressor Problems?

The first one, of course, is air blowing into the car through the vents isn’t cool. Next, listen for grinding or squealing noises. This can indicate seized bearings or bad compressor components. The compressor, for example, has a clutch that keeps the compressor from being engaged all the time. These parts can often be repaired or replaced, but it takes a professional to determine if it’s more cost-effective for you to replace the entire compressor instead. Make an appointment at your Catalina BRAKEmax now for a free AC inspection.

What Does “Recharging” The Coolant In My Car Mean?

The AC system uses refrigerant to create cold air. As soon as you notice tepid or warm air blowing from the vents into the car, make an appointment at BRAKEmax to have the coolant checked. If it is low, our mechanic will check for leaks and then refill the coolant.

It’s better to let a professional determine whether to perform a car AC recharge—meaning to evacuate the entire system of coolant—or to simply add coolant. Overfilling can cause additional problems, so let our expert mechanics take on this task.

How Much Does It Cost To Repair A Car AC System?

There’s no set price for AC repairs. Your costs will depend on a number of factors, including the extent of repair needed; the make, model and age of your car; and whether expensive parts may need to be replaced. Our AC technicians will give you a clear, written estimate for any repairs before work begins.

BRAKEmax’s Concierge Service Saves You Time

Your time is valuable but your car still needs to be serviced. That’s why we offer our free concierge service! We will pick your car up from your location (within three miles of our shop) and return it to you after the repairs or maintenance has been completed. It will be cleaned and sanitized at all contact points, too. 

Our respect for your time doesn’t get any better than that! You can schedule at the same time you set your appointment.