We often take our vehicle’s air conditioning (henceforth, A/C) for granted — until it isn’t working properly or worse, isn’t working at all. Whether Downtown Denver, the greater City of Denver area, or outside the city on a road trip driving vacation — Sometimes that happens because we don’t practice good preventive maintenance or we create our own problems doing things ourselves.
Modern vehicle A/C systems have changed, not only on Domestic and Asian brands, but especially the European vehicle brands we specialize in at Mancinelli’s Auto Repair Center. They’re much more complex, compact and precise in their specifications for type and amount of refrigerant, lubricating oil, and A/C system maintenance procedures. Moreover, if you own a hybrid vehicle, it’s even more complicated because they feature high-voltage electronics, alternating current electricity, and large liquid-cooled battery packs.
Your vehicle’s A/C system isn’t standalone anymore either. Its controls typically are networked through your infotainment center stack and other vehicle system controllers. For instance, the A/C system on many new cars, truck and SUVs may use input from rain or solar heat sensors embedded in your windshield. You can count on the auto mechanics at Mancinelli’s Auto Repair Center to have the A/C system savvy, tools, and equipment to properly inspect and service your vehicle’s A/C system. It’s why we back our service with a 5-year/50,000-mile warranty — the best in the greater Denver market.
Let’s check your A/C system know-how with several “Did you know?” questions:
Did you know refrigerant quantities in you A/C system has declined over time? A decade ago, over a pound was common; today, with the new R-1234yf refrigerant system, A/C systems have just a few, albeit costly, ounces.
Did you know modern A/C systems are physically tighter? Leaks are far less common, which given their expense is a good thing. In addition, when serviced, leak detection tests are part of the service procedure. The expense of modern A/C refrigerants and components is driving this.
Did you know A/C refrigerants contain a special oil that lubricates and cools the components in your A/C system? While normal wear and tear eventually gets to all moving parts, low lubricant level accelerates the wearing out of expensive A/C system parts.
Did you know different types of vehicle A/C refrigerants should not be mixed? Not only is it illegal, but the wrong refrigerant in your A/C system is also a contaminant that can negatively impact A/C system performance.
Did you know that A/C servicing equipment and associated service procedures vary between refrigerant types (e.g. older R-134a vs. newer R-1234yf)? Not every auto repair shop is properly equipped.
Did you know that inspecting, identifying and addressing A/C problems earlier can save on more extensive and costly repairs down the road? For instance, recognizing and taking care of a faulty A/C clutch earlier can save an expensive compressor from failing, but if you wait too long, expect to replace both components and more.
While you may not have gotten every question correct, it’s our responsibility at Mancinelli’s Auto Repair Center to not miss a thing. That’s why relying on the professional, expert and informed auto mechanics at Mancinelli’s Auto Repair Center matters. We’re aware, experienced, and constantly train in ever-evolving automaker-specific service procedures. We can make the difference in your A/C passenger cabin comfort when it comes to summer cooling or winter heating, let alone whether your A/C vents are blowing enough or any air. So your prompt action now can also save you money over the long term.
Here’s a video describing some of what a professional auto mechanic needs to know today about servicing new vehicle A/C systems charged with R-1234yf refrigerant:
If you hear strange sounds when your air conditioning turns on, or if it just isn't as cold as it used to be, let us take a look at your vehicle’s A/C system now with a complimentary inspection, so you can have peace-of-mind wherever your travel. Whether you have an A/C or another auto repair concern, please call us,schedule an appointment online, or visit us. Mancinelli’s Auto Repair Center is located at at 375 Logan Street, Denver, CO 80203. We’ll help keep you cool for when you need it most.