When looking to buy a luxury car, Porsche is one of the first luxury names that comes to mind. With their sporty looks and high price tag, these beautiful cars are a go-to for collectors, investors, business owners and even families. With many different types of styles, these classy cars are appealing to everyone.
If purchasing a luxury car like a Porsche, you want to make sure that it’s always in the best possible condition. Of course, the easiest way to do that is to follow the scheduled maintenance required for your car, and seek a skilled mechanic or auto shop whenever you have concerns.
How Does it Work?
The air compressor is a crucial part of your comfort. Once created, they became a common feature in the regular automobile. They provide the critical backbone of your air conditioning system, and let the car interior cool to an entire twenty degrees or so from the outdoor temperature. This gives the driver greater flexibility and comfort when driving in hot temperatures.
While the air conditioning system feels like a blast of cold, fresh air—like opening a freezer door—the cooling effect is actually created by removing heat from the outside warm air. Essentially, the compressor begins to activate the refrigerant in the system. It travels through the condenser, where the heat is pulled out. After, it contaminants are removed in the dryer, and then the pressure is lessened after passing through the expansion valve. Finally, it progresses through the evaporator and is pushed into your car as cold, fresh-feeling air.
Because you only use the air conditioning system during the hot months, it’s more likely to last longer than other key components of your car, since it’s not facing the same wear and tear. Similarly, drivers may not notice a malfunctioning system for a while, due to lack of consistent use.
Warning Signs
The warning signs of a potentially defunct or problematic air compressor are fairly obvious. If the vents are blowing out warm air, even after driving it and keeping the car on for a little while, then the system is down. Oftentimes, this simply means getting the refrigerant recharged. This generally happens every few years or so. If it’s a more severe problem, it may result in the entire compressor needing to be replaced. A leak in any of the air conditioning system locations can also result in a failing air conditioning system.
The compressor is an absolutely essential part of the system. In its absence, the car is left only with fans blowing outside air into the vehicle, with no cooling capacity. Like other parts of the engine, the compressor is powered by the serpentine belt. If it snaps, the compressor will fail to work. At the same time, the car itself will stop working, which would obviously indicate that something is wrong with the car. Other potential warning signs include: weird rattling, or unexpected noises, lack of efficiency, or strange fluid leaks.
How to Avoid Problems with Your Air Compressor
One of the best ways to avoid a more costly repair—like getting the full compressor replaced—is to use the air conditioning regularly and check for problems. It’s recommended that even during the months of November to February, you should turn the air on for at least ten minutes every thirty days. This prevents the system from “resting” too long which can be detrimental in the long-term.
Thankfully, if regular care is taken with the compressor, it should last the average lifespan of your car, and prevent a costly removal and replacement cost. Recharging is expected every few years for the health of the car.
How We Can Help:
No matter the problem, our skilled technicians here at Star Motors are ready to help. Serving San Juan Capistrano, CA as well as other Southern Orange County areas, we are prepared to fix any of your problems. Specializing in European vehicles, we can gladly work with you on any potential issues. We’ve served our customers for over 30 years, and have factory-trained and ASE Master Certified Technicians are always available to service your car. We understand that your car is special to you, and we treat it like it’s our own. Call or stop by today to get your AC cooling again!
