Be prepared so you can stay cool when it’s hot!
It pays to be prepared. When it comes to the hot summer weather, you want to be sure that your air-conditioning system isn’t going to let you down. If you want to make sure that you keep your cool this summer, run through this handy checklist to help you prepare your car’s air conditioning for hot weather.
Timing is everything. Don’t wait until the hot weather has arrived to start using and testing your air conditioning. Use the system regularly throughout the year, and particularly in the spring, when you have a few weeks before the hot weather kicks in to get any remedial work carried out.
Test the air flow in the system by turning the air conditioning on high and manually inspecting each of the vents. Is air coming out of every vent? Is the air pressure the same around the car, or are some vents weaker than others? Change the temperature of the system. Is the air cooling down as you would expect? If you find any problems, you may need to schedule the car in with your service department.
Listen for strange noises. This isn’t about things that go bump in the night, but more about ticks, rattles, or knocking sounds that might indicate there’s a problem with the system. Listen at each vent and also at the dashboard when the car is idle, and when you put your foot on the gas. It’s quite possible that there is a small obstruction (such as a leaf or twig) somewhere in the system, or there could be a more serious problem. If in doubt, call the technician at your dealership.
Check out unusual smells. Undue oily, mechanical smells could indicate that the system is damaged or underperforming in some way and may need mechanical attention. Stale or unpleasant odors may indicate that the air filter needs replacing or that something is caught somewhere in the system. Your owner’s manual will be able to tell you how to change the filter, or get your mechanic on the case if you’d rather not do it yourself.
If the air is powerful but doesn’t appear to cool properly, you may have a problem with the coolant level in your air conditioning system. This will naturally deplete over time, but low levels may also indicate a leak in or damage to the system. The owner’s manual for your car can probably give you instructions on how to check, but if you’re unsure, ask your service department to have a look for you.
When it comes to your car’s air conditioning, don’t delay regular maintenance or repair until it’s too late. A minor fault can quickly turn into a major problem, so consult your service department as soon as you think you might need help!
Honda of Lincoln is happy to provide any assistance or services needed, and can be reached at (402) 437-1200. You can also visit their website at www.hondaoflincoln.com.