Don't Let a Broken Auto Air Conditioner Make You Sweat!

The extreme heat, in combination with high levels of humidity, makes being in a car without a properly functioning air conditioner quite uncomfortable. While driving with the windows down may provide some relief, this is not usually a preferred way for drivers to keep their cool.

If you have recently noticed that the performance of the air conditioning in your vehicle isn't working as well as it should, the sooner you have the issue addressed, the better! The last thing anyone wants to do is get stuck in rush hour traffic without the comfort of air conditioning to keep them and others in the car comfortable while waiting for the traffic to subside.

Common Air Conditioning Problems in Vehicles

There are a number of different problems that could cause your vehicle air conditioner to lose efficiency. One potential issue is a leak in the system. A leak causes your car to lose refrigerant, which prevents air in the system from being cooled properly.

Another culprit could be compressor problems. Compressor problems can arise as a result of leaks in the air conditioning system or because of faulty equipment. 

Older cars are also more likely to have issues with their air conditioning systems, for any number of reasons. This is especially the case for cars that have not had their air conditioning system properly maintained over the years. Depending on the car, owners may need to replace or replenish the refrigerant at Mavis Tires and Brakes and keep the cold air flowing.

Winter, the rougher of the two.

Before the first frost hits, there are little things you can do to make sure your car is in tip-top shape. Besides making sure you have a scraper or two in the trunk, there are several other things that will keep your car running smoothly all winter long. Below are just a few of the simple things you can do at home to improve your safety. And, remember, regularly servicing your car at Mavis Tires and Brakes is the best way to avoid any major mishaps on the road.

Carry an emergency kit.

Every driver should have a survival kit in his or her car. The snow and ice pose a greater danger and, even though no one wants to think of the worst-case scenario, you want to be prepared in case you do become stranded. Keep in mind that the more remote the roads you frequent, the more items you will want.

Some basic items you should always have include:

• A blanket

• Whistle

• Plumber's candle and lighter

• Plastic bag (used for gathering snow and water)

• Single edged razor (used to cut upholstery for insulation)

• Empty metal soup can (for melting snow with candle)

• Small LED Flashlight

• Cell phone car charger

• Notepad, pen or pencil

• Portable air compressor

• Jumper cables

• Foldable shovel

• Fix-a-flat aerosol 

• First aid kit

• Hat and gloves 

Check tire pressure.

There is a reason most people end up heading to Mavis Tires and Brakes for new tires when the weather turns cold. Tires lose a pound of pressure for every drop of 10 degrees in temperature. This poses a huge threat, as underinflated tires don't “bite” the road through the snow.  

Check your brakes.

When it comes to brake issues, your vehicle will always alert you with a sound or a feeling when there’s a problem. It’s always wise to investigate your brakes by listening for odd grinding or scraping sounds while applying the brakes, feel for vibrations in the brake pedal or steering wheel, or manually inspect your brake pads by looking at each tire. It is also good to know when to schedule car maintenance and let the Mavis Tires and Brakes professionals take care of your brake system.

Wax the lights.

Yes, this is a small detail; however, you want full visibility during the dreary winter days. Build-up on your headlamps decreases your safety—a risk not worth taking. To remove build up, rub car wax on the clean lights, and then buff off. 

Test your battery.

There is no worse feeling than hopping in your car only to hear the silence of a dead battery. Since winter puts more stress on your car's battery, it is a good idea to proactively have your battery checked at your local Mavis Tires and Brakes.

Replace your wiper blades.

While fog and rain cut down on your visibility, the added snow, sleet, ice, and waning summer sun add to the factors that make it hard to see in the winter. Wiper blades are usually good for about six months, and you should always make sure you have sufficient, working blades for the upcoming snow and ice. You want to ensure that you have optimal visibility at all times.

Have Mavis Tires and Brakes check winter necessities.

Before heading out it’s always a good idea to have a qualified technician conduct a check on your vehicle to be certain you’ll be safe on the road. The expert staff at Mavis Tires and Brakes can help check your battery or replace it if needed. Windshield wiper blades, vehicle fluids, tire wear; anything that will most certainly impact safe travels for you and your family should be evaluated by the staff at Mavis Tires and Brakes.