Air conditioning is a vital component in almost all cars on the road today, with many people relying on it throughout summer and winter. Depending on where you live and how harsh the climate is in your state, you may use your air conditioning more than others and therefore need to get it serviced more frequently. Auto AC repair is a common need for car owners, but many people have questions that they want to be answered before they go and get it done. Here are three of the most common questions about auto ac repair that you might want to know before you spend a few hundred dollars.

If Your Air Conditioner Is Still Working, Do You Need It Repaired?

If you have had a recent service and the report indicated you might want to get your auto ac repair done now, but your air conditioner still works, it is easy to become confused about the supposed discrepancy. The truth is that the air conditioning can run even if it is not going at full strength, and in the case of a car AC, this is likely related to the filter. The filter between you and the actual cooling system is there to protect you from all the grease, oil, dirt, and bad smells that are swirling around in your cars front end, and if you don't get that replaced regularly, you can get quite sick or at the very least have a horrific smelling car. Yes an AC can work with a clogged filter, but not in a way that you would want.

Why Is Your Air Conditioner Not As Strong Anymore?

Over time, invasive elements and aging of parts can see your auto AC not work as it once did. There are a variety of reasons that could be behind this, from the coils getting corroded to leaks in your coolant and even just the entire system losing power efficiency after years of use. There is no one way to determine what is wrong with your AC and why it is not as strong anymore without getting it open and having a look inside.

How Long Does It Take?

Most auto AC repair is actually just an extension of your car service and the replacement of common parts like the aforementioned filter. That can be done in under an hour, usually, and so can some other common repairs like coolant replacement. If there is any sort of structural work, you are looking at closer to a full day in the shop, but normally not any more than that. Your car's AC is one of the easier components to fix in most cars, and your mechanic will be able to give you a more accurate quote once they know what is wrong with it.