Air-Con Diagnostics and Repairs in Tyne and Wear
When the air con has stopped working, the first job is to find out why. Repairs follow from what we find.
Air con that blows warm has several possible causes, from a simple fault to an expensive component. Guessing is a poor way to choose between them.
This page covers fault-finding and repair of a system that has stopped working or behaves wrongly. Routine upkeep and refrigerant top-ups are covered on their own pages.
What can be wrong
The system is a mix of mechanical, electrical and pressure-related parts, and any of them can fail. Warm air is only the symptom.
- A refrigerant leak from a hose, joint, condenser or other component
- A compressor that is not engaging or has worn
- Electrical faults such as a failed switch, fuse, relay or sensor
- Cooling fans not working, so heat is not removed
- Flaps or actuators behind the dash not directing air properly
How we diagnose it
We begin with what you have noticed, then inspect the system visually and check whether the compressor engages. We test pressures and electrical operation and look for signs of a leak. A system that has lost its refrigerant has usually leaked, so topping up without finding the leak may only be a temporary answer.
At Banks of the Tyne in Hebburn we explain the findings in plain terms and show you where we can, before agreeing the repair.
What repair involves and what affects it
Repairs range from replacing a relay or sensor to fitting a new condenser, hose or compressor. Parts that sit in the middle of the dashboard take far longer to reach than ones at the front of the car. Where a compressor has failed internally, debris can spread through the system, which may mean more parts need attention.
We cannot say a repair will be possible or what it will involve until diagnosis is done. The estimate sets out what we found and what we recommend.
When to act
If the air con is cold on some days and not others, or it makes grinding or squealing noises, get it looked at rather than carrying on. A seizing compressor can affect the belt that also drives other parts of the engine.
If you hear a loud screech or the battery or power steering warning lights come on, stop in a safe place and get advice.
In short: Air con repairs start with an honest diagnosis. Once we know the cause, you can decide what to do with accurate information.
Air-Con Diagnostics and Repairs: FAQs
Why is my air con blowing warm air?
The common causes are low refrigerant from a leak, a compressor or electrical fault, or a fan problem. Only testing can show which applies to your car.
Can you just top it up?
Where the gas is low, topping up is a re-gas, which is a separate service. If there is a leak, gas alone may not last, so we advise finding the leak first.
Is the compressor always the problem?
No. Many warm-air faults come from cheaper parts, such as a switch, sensor or relay. This is why diagnosis before replacing parts matters.
Is it worth repairing an older car's air con?
That depends on the fault and what the car is worth to you. We give you the findings and options and leave the decision with you.
Does air con affect the rest of the car?
The compressor is driven by the engine, so a seizing one can strain the belt. In normal use it has little effect, but unusual noises should be checked.
Part of our air conditioning & heating service
See the full air conditioning & heating page, or choose your area.
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Related services
Air Con Re-gassing
Refrigerant recharging for car air conditioning that has stopped cooling properly, with a check for why the gas was low.
View service →Air Conditioning & HeatingAir-Con Servicing
A routine check of car air conditioning performance to catch small problems before the system stops cooling.
View service →Air Conditioning & HeatingHeating-System Repairs
Diagnosis and repair of car heaters that blow cold, run weakly, mist the windows or leak coolant inside.
View service →Get a free quote for air-con diagnostics and repairs
Tell us what your vehicle needs and we will come back to you. You can also message us on WhatsApp or use the call button.
- Banks of the Tyne Motor Co Ltd
Unit 19a, Prince Consort Road, Hebburn, Tyne and Wear, NE31 1EH