Are Car AC Recharge Kits Compatible With Hybrid Or Electric Cars?
Car AC Recharge Kits
If your car’s air conditioning system blew ice-cold air last summer but now barely cools, it’s likely the refrigerant gas that runs the system has lost some of its pressure. Recharge kits promise to fix the problem by adding more refrigerant to your vehicle’s AC system in a do-it-yourself process. However, they may not be appropriate for your car, and using one could lead to a failed recharge and damage to the components inside your A/C system.
Most DIY a/c recharge kit for car include a can of refrigerant, a hose with a coupler and a gauge to monitor the pressure in the system and prevent overfilling or underfilling. These kits are available at most auto parts stores and usually cost under $50. When you purchase a kit, be sure it contains the type of refrigerant required by your vehicle; the specific refrigerant needed should be printed on an under-hood sticker or in the owner’s manual. You also want to choose a kit that includes a sealant to repair small leaks.
In addition, most of these kits contain a solvent to remove any oil that has accumulated in the air conditioner’s drain port and compressor. These products are intended to be a temporary solution and may not fully clean the drain port or compressor, especially if they’re used multiple times. If the drain port or compressor aren’t cleaned properly, they can become clogged and cause the AC to fail.
Are Car AC Recharge Kits Compatible With Hybrid Or Electric Cars?
The problem is that some DIY AC recharge cans are not compatible with your hybrid or electric car. Hybrid and electric vehicles use a different type of A/C compressor that shares its oil with the electric motor that drives it. These systems require specialized lubricant, and using the wrong type of oil can destroy them. Most DIY recharge cans label their refrigerant with a warning that they’re not suitable for hybrid or electric cars, but many people overlook this fine print or mistakenly assume all r134a is the same.
If you use a DIY recharge can on your hybrid or electric car, the impurities from the old AC oil that contaminated the new refrigerant will make your AC system’s compressor and electric motor non-conductive. This will shorten the life of the compressor and possibly lead to costly repairs down the road. It’s always best to leave the recharging of your car’s AC system to a professional mechanic.
They’re trained to use the right tools and have the experience and expertise to get the job done quickly, safely and efficiently. They’ll also ensure your car’s A/C system is working correctly and that there are no underlying problems like a broken compressor or other component that requires professional service. This will save you money in the long run as your car will be able to deliver cool, comfortable air throughout the year.