The AC is an important part of your driving that you need to take care of. This system works hard to ensure a cool driving environment is maintained in hot weather. Read on for further insight on Dodge AC problems.
If you’re looking for answers to your Dodge AC issues then you have come to the right place. It is important that every driver understands how their A/C functions, why its behaving strangely, and how you can fix these issues. Take a look at our guide to Dodge air conditioning: common issues and easy fixes.
Breaking down how A/C in your car functions
Before we go any further, we must explain how and A/C systems function and elaborate on some of the major components. This information will come in handy when you need to buy spare parts for an easy DIY fix or even when the mechanic at your shop explains what the problem might be.
First off, A/C systems work by removing the heat and moisture from the air inside your vehicle using several basic principles including evaporation and condensation, followed by cooling and expansion. Some of the parts involved in making this process possible include the following:
Compressor
This is the belt driven pump attached to the engine that acts as the processor of the entire system. It pumps refrigerated gas to the condenser in a loop. This refrigerant is what is responsible for cooling the hot air which is then released back as cool air.
Condenser
The condenser receives high pressure refrigerant gas from the compressor. It is where the refrigerant gas changes to a liquid form.
Orifice tuber
Also known as the thermal expansion valve, this component is responsible for depressurizing the refrigerant liquid back to a gas. These parts coordinate to maintain the correct pressure and temperature of your system calculating the right amount of refrigerant that can circulate the system.
Receiver drier or Accumulator
Both these components have a desiccant material that takes up moisture from the air, the second function of the AC system in your car.
Evaporator
This is the part located right behind the dash board. It is the job of your evaporator to deliver cold air to the passenger compartment.
Role of refrigerant on your Dodge AC system
The refrigerant we’ve been speaking about us commonly known as Freon. However older models used the refrigerant that was eliminated from use in the AC systems due to its highly pollutant nature. The refrigerant used on newer cars, is a safer alternative to the older version.
Because of the important role Freon plays in the AC process, it must remain at a specific charge/ level. Usually, leaks, corrosion and other issues deplete the charge and trigger some AC issues, most of which are common to Dodge models.
Additionally, low refrigerant has the potential to damage some of your cars AC parts including the Compressor.
In order to repair refrigerant issues, you will need to get a Recharge where you mechanic will examine the cause of refrigerant depletion and fix it. They will proceed to prepare the correct blend of refrigerant for your vehicle and top it up without overcharging your system.
Some of the signs your car might be in need of a recharge include
Your AC doesn’t blow cold air
You might notice leaks especially around the compressor or inside your cabin You might find ice on the compressor, meaning the low levels of refrigerant prevent your systems coil from absorbing the right amount of heat causing the coils to ice over.
Your clutch might not engage when you turn on the AC
PRO TIP: Before you rush to the shop or request a top up from your mechanic, it is important that you understand what could be causing you AC troubles and how you can fix them. Sure Low refrigerant levels is a common cause for Dodge AC problems, it is not the only one. Proper diagnosis is the best way to solve you AC issues long term.
Compressor on Dodge cars
The compressor is an important element within your AC that ensures proper functioning. Any damages or issue with your compressor will trigger overall failure within your Dodge’s AC system. Some of the popular AC compressor associated issues include:
Low compressor discharge pressure. This may be triggered by leaks in the system, Freon shortages, a defective expansion valve, and compressor valve leakages among other reasons.
Low compressor suction pressure that will be triggered by worn compressor piston, leakages and Freon shortages. Additionally, moisture within the system and damage to the hose will trigger this problem.
High suction pressure often caused by an overcharged system. Yes, too much Freon in the system like too little will trigger problems with your AC. In addition to overcharging,
Non functional compressor. When your compressor is not working, you should suspect a breakage. A broken, compressor piston, clutch wire, broken belt, ad clutch coil and bad thermostat are all responsible for the compressor not working.
Problematic evaporator coil. The evaporator coil might stop cooling or even freeze over. The latter is usually caused by thermostat problems. When your evaporator coil is not working, you should suspect Freon shortages, low or high suction pressure, or defects with the expansion valve.
Popular dodge Models and their AC issues
Dodge Charger AC issues
This model commonly has problems blowing cold air. Usually there are several causes for a failing AC on the Charger including: Low refrigerant or even lack of it, a bad condenser, failing clutch cycling switch and a jammed or locked blend door actuator. These aren’t the only causes of AC failure but they are the most common.
Dodge Challenger AC issues
The heater on the Challenger intermittently blows cold air regardless of the temperature or doesn’t efficiently blow enough cool air. This is indicative of a malfunctioning AC.
Often these problems are caused by a lack of refrigerant, a failing or damaged condenser, and issues with the clutch cycling switch and a faulty blower motor.
However, on this model, it’s quite likely that your vehicle has defective software. Dodge has released a bulletin to instruct dealers to flash upgrade the HVAC software as a first attempt to correct the issue of intermittent cold air or blowing warm air regardless of the temperature setting.
Dodge RAM 1500 AC issues
On the RAM 1500 a problematic AC usually blows hot air when set to cold and very hot when set to hot. You might notice the blower motor remain at the same speed even when adjusted to the maximum cold setting instead of a noticeable pattern plowing as you would expect.
Often the causes of these issues among many others include leakages and damage or wear to your AC compressor. To troubleshoot your issues, you should listen to the motor for its consistent noises and for any strange noises. Next inspect your Compressor and proceed to test the overall AC function.
Dodge Durango AC issues
The three most common causes for AC issues on the Durango include leaks, problems with your compressor and an electrical climate control issue. To trouble shoot the AC on your Durango, begin by checking the controls. Listen to the blower motor to see if the noise made by the blower increases when turned high and vice versa. Proceed to the compressor, found in front of the engine and inspect it along with the belt.
How much does it cost to fix your Dodge A/C system?
The AC system isn’t just a luxury that drivers enjoy in hot or humid weather. In fact, properly functional air conditioning is crucial for safe driving especially in the summer heat. If your system is not properly functional it is important that you get it repaired and operational.
Depending on the extent or wear or tear, the cost of repair might vary. However on estimate you can expect to spend between 255-340 dollars on Dodge air conditioning repair. This price includes both parts and labor expenses. A replacement on the other hand could cost you well over 1000 dollars depending on the state of you current AC, the cost of the replacement part and labor.
When will you need a Repair or replacement?
Choosing between a repair or replacement can be quite difficult especially considering the costs involved. We strongly advice against making this decision based on only your diagnosis. The first step before either a repair or replacement is a second opinion from a professional. Professionals will take into account several factors and help you make the best possible decision on fixing your AC.
Final word
The AC is an essential part of your vehicle systems. Because many parts have to work together for its proper function, it is easy to experience issues with your AC.
Properly diagnosing these problems on your Dodge is an important step to fixing your air conditioning. Sure models may be different but they share similar AC working principles. Ensure to always have your AC system properly diagnosed and fixed when you experience these issues.