Air Conditioning Service
A large majority of us now use air-con in our cars on both hot and cold days.Most cars should be serviced every 10,000 miles or every year but did you know that an air-con service is not included in your car's regular service schedule? As with all things mechanical, the air-con system needs to be serviced regularly to keep it working at optimum performance. Bacteria and pollen build up means that there could be more than fresh air flowing from your air-con. A regular service will remove the nasty things that cause unwanted odours and worse.
Keep cool with our Air Con Inspection service
A large majority of us now use air-con in our cars on both hot and cold days. Just like any other system in your car, the air-conditioning needs regular attention to make sure it’s working as efficiently as possible. As a rule, this will not be checked in an average service, so if you've had your car for over 2 years, it may well need an inspection.
Without a check, your air-con system will not only be less effective, it will also make your engine work harder which will result in using more fuel.
Why service?
Reason 1. Checking for Leaks.
Your car's air-con system has to cope with a pretty hostile environment thanks to engine temperatures, travelling at speed, and the daily encounters with potholes and other road conditions. As a result, the refrigerant gas leaks out of the air-con system over time. This gas is required to cool the air.
The system has flexible pipes and seals to absorb some of the vibrations from the road. It is through these seals and pipes that gas commonly escapes, and an average system will lose around 10% of gas per annum.
Over time this leads to a less effective air-con system, as eventually the pressure will be reduced to a level whereby the system cannot function effectively.
Reason 2. The system has not been used for a while.
It is common for drivers not to use the air-con system during the winter months, and then the first time it is used in the summer, it doesn't work to the same standard or at all.
Most drivers don't know that the system must be used regularly to ensure that the seals are kept moist (this also helps stop the gas leaking out); this is because lubricating oil is mixed with the gas to keep the compressor unit running smoothly.
As with all oil, it should be replaced at regular intervals. So, as part of the air-con service the system is drained under vacuum to removes the oil, gas and any moisture from the system. The system is then recharged with gas and new oil which will keep it running more efficiently and effectively.
Reason 3. Bacteria build up.
Ever had that stale smell when you turn your air-con on for the first time in a while? This smell is usually associated with a dirty pollen filter and a build-up of bacteria in the air vents.
The pollen filter is a key component in the system. It filters incoming air before it enters the vehicle interior. These germs and bacteria have been linked with asthma and respiratory problems.
A regular service will include an antibacterial clean removing nasty odours and germs so that all you get when you turn on your air-con is fresh air
As well as getting the system re-gassed, the best way to keep your air-con in top form is to use it all year round.
Change the cabin filter regularly, and consider an anti-bacterial clean if you notice musty smells coming from the vents.
We recommend you service your air-con system every two years
to replenish the liquids used by the system, and to ensure all
components are working correctly. Your owner's manual will give you the
specific requirements for your car.
Supporting you at every step
Booking with HiQ couldn’t be easier. Whether you're sorting tyres, scheduling a service, or planning your next MOT, we’re here to guide you from start to finish. From choosing a convenient time to arriving at our centre, every step of the process is designed with you in mind. Our friendly team is always on hand to assist, making sure you feel confident and cared for every mile. At HiQ, we’re not just about keeping cars in top shape; we’re here to keep things smooth for you, too.
Book online
Choose your services, pick your local HiQ centre and select your preferred date.
Confirm booking
The HiQ centre will call to confirm your booking and ensure everything’s ready.
Drop off your vehicle
Drop your vehicle off at your local HiQ centre
Diagnostics
We’ll diagnose the issue and call you before carrying out any unexpected work for approval.
Collection
We’ll call you to let you know when your vehicle is ready for collection
