Common Faults and Solutions:
Condenser problems can directly reduce air conditioning performance.
Be aware of these common faults:
Leaks: If there's oil or sludge on the surface, it's likely refrigerant is "leaking" and requires prompt repair.
Clogs: Older cars are prone to blockages due to accumulated debris.
A simple way to identify a blockage is to feel the temperature of each layer of the condenser.
Normally, the temperature should gradually decrease from top to bottom.
If there's a significant temperature difference between any two layers, it's likely a blockage.
Poor heat dissipation: This is the most common problem!
The condenser is often installed in front of the radiator,
where road debris and dust can easily accumulate between the two, blocking the cooling airflow.
Over time, not only will the air conditioner not cool properly,
but it can also cause the compressor to shut down due to excessive pressure, potentially damaging the engine.