Is your car’s AC blowing warm air in the middle of summer? Here’s the quick answer: you probably have a failing part in your auto cooling system and replacing it might be easier and cheaper than you think. Keep reading to find out which parts commonly cause cooling issues and what you can do about them. 

Did you know? According to the U.S. Department of Energy, car air conditioning systems can lose 5% efficiency every year if not maintained properly. And in extreme summer heat, a malfunctioning AC compressor is the number one culprit behind poor cooling performance. 

This blog breaks down the top parts to check and possibly replace when your AC is not cooling as it should. We’ll cover real-life symptoms, part explanations, practical advice, and a casual, no-jargon way to help you understand what’s happening under your hood. 

Let’s get started. 

Why You Might Be Experiencing AC Compressor Failure Symptoms 

The compressor is the heart of your auto cooling system. When it fails or underperforms, your AC system can’t circulate refrigerant, meaning no cold air comes out of the vents. 

Common Signs Something’s Off: 

• Warm air blowing from vents, especially when idling 

• Weird noises (clicking, grinding) when the AC is on 

• AC clutch not engaging 

• Burning smell when the AC is running 

• Dashboard warning lights (in newer vehicles) 

If you're seeing these AC compressor failure symptoms, it's time to investigate further. 

Top Reasons Your Car AC Isn’t Cooling Properly 

Here are the key car AC system parts that may need attention when your AC stops working efficiently. 

1. The AC Compressor (Most Common Culprit) 

Let’s talk about the one part that causes the most complaints during summer, the AC compressor for the car. It compresses and circulates refrigerant through your system. 

What Goes Wrong: 

• Worn-out internal bearings 

• Broken clutch 

• Seized compressor pulley 

• Electrical fault or blown fuse 

What You Can Do: 

• Test the compressor clutch with a multimeter 

• Check refrigerant pressure (low pressure can mimic compressor failure) 

• Listen for odd sounds under the hood 

Pro Tip: If the compressor is dead, you’ll need a replacement. Buying the correct AC compressor for your car model is crucial, so always match it with your vehicle’s year and make. 

2. Car Blower Motor: No Air = No Cooling 

Even if your compressor works, no air will come out if your car blower motor is shot. 

Signs of a Bad Blower Motor: 

• Air comes out weak or not at all 

• Only works on certain speed settings 

• Makes whining or rattling noises 

Fix It: 

• Replace the blower motor resistor (if speed issues only) 

• Swap out the motor completely if the airflow is weak or dead 

It’s often mounted under the glove box and easy to replace with a few screws. 

3. Cabin Air Filter: The Simple Fix That’s Often Overlooked 

It might sound minor, but a clogged cabin air filter can choke your system, causing poor airflow and weird smells. 

Symptoms: 

• Musty odor 

• Weak airflow 

• Visible dirt/debris on the filter 

Change it every 12,000–15,000 miles, especially in dusty or humid areas. 

4. AC Condenser: Cooling the Coolant 

The condenser sits in front of your radiator and cools the refrigerant down before it returns inside your car. Damage or clogging can prevent proper heat release. 

Signs of a Problem: 

• The AC warms only when the car is stationary 

• Visible damage (like bent fins or debris blockage) 

• Refrigerant leaks 

Cleaning the fins or replacing the condenser may solve the problem. It’s a simple fix that can restore full cooling power. 

5. Refrigerant Leak: Invisible, but Devastating 

A refrigerant leak may not show visible signs, but it causes instant cooling loss. If your system is low on refrigerant, the compressor may shut off to prevent damage. 

How to Know: 

• Sudden loss of cooling power 

• The compressor won’t turn on 

• Oil stains around AC lines (a sign of a leak) 

You can recharge refrigerant, but if there’s a leak, it will keep escaping until you replace the O-rings, hoses, or condenser. 

Real Example: An AC Disaster in 100°F Heat 

One of our customers recently contacted Parteazy after a frustrating road trip across Nevada. The AC had suddenly quit during a 6-hour drive. Turned out, the AC compressor pulley had seized, snapping the belt. With temps soaring to 105°F, the car turned into an oven. 

The fix? A new compressor, serpentine belt, and blower motor, all sourced at 30% less from Parteazy than their local shop had quoted. That’s how knowing your auto cooling system pays off. 

How to Check These Parts Yourself (No Fancy Tools Required) 

Here’s a quick checklist to help you DIY-diagnose the issue before heading to the mechanic: 

Part	What to Look For	Fix
Compressor	Warm air, loud noise, clutch not spinning	Replace unit or clutch
Blower Motor	Weak or no airflow	Replace motor/resistor
Cabin Filter	Dusty/musty air	Replace filter
Condenser	Warm air at idle, visible damage	Clean or replace
Refrigerant	Sudden cooling loss	Recharge or repair leak

 

Quick Tips to Prevent AC Issues in the Future 

• Run your AC once a week, even in winter, to keep seals lubricated. 

• Check refrigerant level every 6 months. 

• Replace cabin air filter every 12K–15K miles. 

• Keep an eye (and ear) on strange sounds when the AC is on. 

• Don’t ignore the first signs of AC compressor failure symptoms. 

Don’t Let a Hot Car Ruin Your Summer 

Fixing your car’s AC might be as simple as swapping one faulty part. Whether it’s the AC compressor for a car, a car blower motor, or just a clogged filter, these parts are easy to inspect and often affordable to replace. 

And the best part? You don’t have to pay dealership prices. 

For budget-friendly and reliable car AC system parts, head to Parteazy. Get OEM-quality replacements at lower prices and keep your cool, even when summer gets brutal. 

FAQ: What People Also Ask 

Q: Why is my AC running but not cooling? 

If your AC is operating but not cooling, common culprits include a clogged air filter, low refrigerant levels, or frozen evaporator coils. These issues can restrict airflow or hinder the cooling process, leading to inadequate temperature control.  

Q: Why is my AC not keeping up in the summer? 

During peak summer heat, your AC might struggle due to dirty filters, leaky ductwork, or being undersized for your space. Additionally, low refrigerant levels or lack of maintenance can impair its efficiency.  

Q: How much does an AC compressor cost? 

Replacing an AC compressor typically costs between $800 and $2,800, depending on factors like the unit's size, brand, and labor charges. On average, homeowners spend around $1,200 on parts and installation. 

Q: How do I fix my AC cooling problem? 

Start by checking and replacing the air filter, ensuring the thermostat is set correctly, and inspecting for any visible obstructions around the outdoor unit. If these steps don't resolve the issue, it's advisable to consult a professional to check for problems like refrigerant leaks or compressor malfunctions.