Why Is My Car A/C Not Blowing Cold? 

At some point in your vehicle’s life, especially in warmer climates, your air conditioner may stop blowing cold air. When that happens, a professional A/C system diagnosis becomes essential to identify the problem—and one of the most common culprits is a refrigerant leak. 

What Causes an A/C Leak? 

Refrigerant leaks can occur over time due to: 

• Worn or cracked seals between A/C components 
• Corroded hoses or fittings 
• Compressor or condenser damage 
• Physical impact or road debris 

While the thought of A/C repairs can bring dollar signs to mind, not all leaks are major. Many are due to a small failed seal, which can be quickly repaired and the system recharged. 

How Do Technicians Diagnose an A/C Leak? 

Our ASE-certified technicians use professional-grade diagnostic tools to inspect the system, including: 

• Refrigerant recovery and vacuum machines to measure pressure 
• High- and low-side A/C gauges 
• UV dye and flashlight detection 
• Electronic leak detectors 
• Visual inspections for damage or hissing noises 

The technician assesses system pressure and may inject a UV dye to trace the exact source of the leak. Once the leak is located, they’ll recommend appropriate repairs and recharge the system. 

Symptoms of an A/C Leak 

• Gradual loss of cooling over time 
• Warm air blowing from vents 
• Noticeable hissing noises from under the hood 
• Visible refrigerant or oily residue around A/C components 
• Unpleasant smells when A/C is on 

Leaks can occur slowly, and most drivers don’t notice until the system stops performing altogether. 

Can I Drive with an A/C Leak? 

Yes—you can still drive with a discharged A/C system. However, running the system without refrigerant long-term can cause seals to dry out, leading to more extensive and expensive repairs down the road. If caught early, a small leak is much more affordable to repair. 

How Common Are A/C Leaks? 

It’s very common to need A/C service at some point—especially after 100,000 miles. Many repair shops, like Nav Auto1, specialize in automotive A/C diagnostics and repairs because it’s a routine issue for vehicle owners. 

What Happens After the Leak Is Found? 

• System Evacuation: All refrigerant is safely recovered with a certified machine. 
• Component Repair/Replacement: Faulty parts or seals are replaced. 
• Leak Verification: The system is vacuum tested to confirm the leak is fixed. 
• Recharge: The system is recharged with the correct refrigerant and oil. 
• Final Test: Cooling performance and system pressure are rechecked. 

Nav Auto1’s Recommendations 

• Never attempt to recharge your A/C system at home. DIY products may contain sealants or contaminants that damage professional recovery machines and your vehicle. 
• Always use certified technicians who are trained to handle refrigerants safely and legally. 
• If your vehicle still uses R-12 refrigerant, now is the perfect time to upgrade to R-134a or the newest R-1234yf, as required by law for newer systems. 

Important Safety Tips 

• Refrigerant is under high pressure and can cause severe chemical burns if handled improperly. 
• Improperly venting refrigerant into the atmosphere is illegal and harms the environment. 
• Always check under-hood labels to identify refrigerant type or past conversions. 
• Never attempt to service an A/C system without proper equipment. 

Can You Diagnose an A/C Leak Yourself? 

We strongly advise against it. Proper diagnosis and repair require: 

• Recovery machines 
• Specialized gauges 
• Safety training 
• EPA certification 

A/C repairs are not DIY-friendly due to the health risks and environmental regulations involved. 

Need A/C Service in Denver? 

If your air conditioner isn’t keeping you cool, let the experts at Nav Auto1 take a look. We use the latest tools, follow strict EPA guidelines, and get the job done right the first time—so you can get back to driving in comfort.