Air Conditioning

Drive Comfortably With Our AC Services

There's nothing like getting into your vehicle on a hot summer day and blasting the air conditioning. It's times like these when you thank the brains behind this invention.


But have you ever wondered how your vehicle's AC works? Or how would you know if something's wrong with it and it's time for AC system maintenance? At Hi-Tech Auto Specialists, our AC maestros can quickly diagnose and fix air conditioning problems.


We use the best air conditioning testing and scanning tools to not only identify the issue but also nip it in the bud. Let's learn when you need to come to us.

Air Conditioning service offered at Hi-Tech Auto Specialists in IL

How Does an Automotive Air Conditioning System Work?


An automotive air conditioning (AC) system is an intricate mechanism that keeps you comfortable during hot drives. It's part of the automotive HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) and relies on multiple components working together seamlessly to cool the cabin.


Here's how each component works:


  • AC Compressor: Think of the compressor as the heart of your vehicle's air conditioning system. It compresses the refrigerant, which is the chemical compound changing from liquid to gas, and vice versa, to keep the air cool. Some common refrigerants used in vehicles are R-134a, R-12, and R-1234yf.
  • Condenser: The hot refrigerant gas goes to the condenser, which is near your vehicle's radiator. Here, the heat absorbed by the refrigerant is released, turning it into a high-pressure liquid.
  • Expansion Valve: The high-pressure liquid refrigerant then passes through the expansion valve. Its pressure drops here, cooling the refrigerant further. The low-pressure liquid can now absorb heat to keep the vehicle cool.
  • Evaporator Coil: The refrigerant enters the evaporator coil and absorbs heat from the cabin air, turning it back into a gas. The cooled air is blown into the cabin by the blower motor as the refrigerant cycles back to the compressor.
  • Cabin Air Filter: As air circulates, the cabin air filter removes dust and allergens. Modern vehicles often feature climate control systems or dual-zone climate control, allowing precise temperature adjustments for different areas of the cabin.


You can control the AC system using the HVAC control panel. The temperature sensor monitors cabin conditions and works with the HVAC control panel to maintain your desired settings. If you activate the defrost mode, the system directs warm air to the windshield to clear fog or frost.


When these AC system components stop working or malfunction, you may experience issues with cooling your vehicle. The expert technicians at Hi-Tech Auto Specialists can fix or replace these components to get the AC system back working.


Warning Signs of a Faulty AC System


There are quite a few signs that indicate you need to take your vehicle for AC service. Here are some of them.


No Cooling


The most obvious indicator of a malfunctioning AC system is when there's no cooling at all. If you turn on the AC and feel no air or warm air, your system may not be working correctly.


It could be due to low refrigerant levels, a faulty compressor or condenser, or blocked vents. Whatever the cause, the experts at Hi-Tech Auto Specialists can handle it.


Unpleasant Odors


Does your vehicle's AC emit a musty or foul smell? Mold and bacteria may have built up in the cabin air filter, so don't take this warning sign lightly.


The issue is usually the filter, which we'll replace at Hi-Tech Auto Specialists so that your vehicle's air is fresh and clean.


Unusual Sounds


Your AC should be barely audible. Rattling or grinding can indicate a problem with the compressor.


Leaves and debris can clog the fan, too, causing loud noises. Bring your vehicle to Hi-Tech Auto Specialists for a diagnosis, and we'll get to the root of the issue.


Water Splotches in the Vehicle


By design, water droplets form on the AC evaporator and drain away through a tube that opens underneath the car. However, if there's a clog in the drainage tube, water can leak into your vehicle's interior.


If you notice water stains on your vehicle's floor, bring it to Hi-Tech Auto Specialists for AC service. We'll check the drainage tube and clean out blockages to prevent further damage.


AC Leakage


When the AC leaks refrigerants, the system is less efficient. At Hi-Tech Auto Specialists, we provide AC recharge services, which include checking for leaks and refilling the refrigerant.


Let Hi-Tech Auto Specialists Handle AC Troubleshooting for Your Vehicle


A broken air conditioning system can ruin your drive. You don't want to be stuck in traffic on a hot day with no AC.


If you notice any of the warning signs we've described or suspect an issue with your car's AC, bring your vehicle to Hi-Tech Auto Specialists. We've been offering AC troubleshooting and maintenance services since 1986. Call 708-423-4555 or 708-865-0855 or visit us at 9740 Southwest Hwy, Oak Lawn, IL 60453 or 10139 Roosevelt Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 today!