Speaking Our Language: Automotive Terminology and Industry Insider Terms for the Car Owner and Enthusiast
Since buying a car isn't part of our daily or weekly lives, most people aren't familiar with all the terminology. We're here to help decipher it, so you can talk shop with your local mechanic, and buy a new or preowned vehicle with confidence. Make sure you’re following us on social media so you can stay up to date on all of the latest industry vocabulary!
Today we’re covering the A/C Compressor, a vital part that you should plan on servicing before the warmer months are upon us!
A/C Compressor: This is an engine-driven pump for the air conditioning system which increases the pressure of the refrigerant. It is powered by a drive-belt connected to the engine’s crankshaft. Then the system pumps it into the condenser, converting it from a gas to a liquid. It’s the central part of the system that keeps you cool while driving!
Without the Air Compressor, our car’s ventilation system cannot efficiently cool our vehicles. Typically this is a part that will last for the life of your vehicle, or at least 8 to 10 years. If in fact it does need replacing, this will not be a recurring issue/expense; they’re typically only replaced once in the lifetime of your car. The most important thing to do is have the A/C compressor recharged every 1 to 2 years as soon as you notice it is not blowing as cold as it usually does. A mechanic will perform an “evac and recharge” which removes the old refrigerant and recharges it with fresh.
If you think your car’s A/C compressor will need a refresh or a replacement, call our service center today and we’ll help you out!