What happened to my A/C?

Michael Leech • January 30, 2017

Hi Everyone!

Well, it is that time of year again! The temps have been low 70s for a couple of weeks, and then all of a sudden, WOW! We have our first 85 degree day. Everyone hops in that car that has been sitting in the sun for 8 hours, turns the fan all the way up, sets the A/C to mx and….sweats in the boiling hot air pouring from the dash because the A/C is not working.

So you need your A/C fixed; what should you, as a consumer know?

Ok, here are the basics. The A/C in your car works by compressing and expanding a gas called a refrigerant. commonly known by the R-12 (which is no longer in use) brand name Freon, this gas ABSORBS heat (kinetic) energy from the air as it is expanded inside the A/C system.

Your A/C system is complex enough to defy a layman’s description in this short blog. However, there are some basics you should know as a consumer to better understand A/C repairs.

The vast majority of A/C repairs are leak repairs. The system has components that can fail under the very high pressures and temperatures in the system. Usually a leak is very minor, and you don’t notice it for a long period of time. Then from November untill March, you do not use your A/C at all. During this time, the leak is progressively decreasing the amount of refridgerant in the system. Then, in April, when you turn on the A/C there is no longer enough in the system for correct operation and your car shuts down the system to prevent damage.
The coolant in the engine (antifreeze) has nothing to do with the A/C. The A/C is a stand alone system using a gas called refrigerant, and is not affected by engine coolant level. The onbard computer will shut down the A/C on a car that is overheating, but at that point your concern is with the overheating problem, NOT the A/C.
Do NOT simply charge up your A/C periodically. The oil that lubricates and protects the expensive A/C components is carried in suspension (in the mix, if you will) with the gaseos refrigerant in the A/C system. When the refrigerant leaks, so does the oil. The retail cost of the PART for a new automotive A/C compressor is typically 250-1000 dollars. Protect the enviornment AND your investment and have A/C leaks repaired correctly.
The A/C system is turned on and off by the A/C control panel in the dash and by the vehicle’s onboard computer. Some A/C system problems are related to these parts of the system. These are actually electrical repairs to the A/C system. Good examples are the fan inside the dash, the door that mixes uncooled and cooled air inside the dash, the electric fan under the hood, and the system that selects which vents the air will exit from. Many of these parts of the system are computer controlled in modern cars, and thus, when diagnosing them, a computerized diagnosis will need to be done (this is where the scan tools that shops pay 7000.00 for must be used).

Ok, if your A/C doesn’t work, you need a professional. This is a system that typically cannot be repaired by a layman.

The GOOD NEWS: Most shops do an A/C inspection for free and provide an estimate for repairs. Keep in mind if the electrical control systems have problems, that is electrical work and will carry a diagnostic charge for troubleshooting.

Fianlly some Do’s and Dont’s

DO: Get a professional to diagnose and fix your A/C system.

DO: Your homework and be informed. Many auto A/C system last for 10+ years so odds are if you have a failure, you will not be familiar with the terminology and functions of the parts that need to be replaced.

DO: Get a second opinion if you are skeptical. These can be expensive repairs, and we want you to know where your money is going and why.

DON’T: Just buy the top-off can from the parts store and pack some extra refrigerant in the system. This could cause high system pressure and damage components that might currently function. A/C systems cannot work with air in them. Therefore, topping off ALWAYS creates a system with non-pure refrigerant that will cause incorrect pressures. Also, frequently incorrect or insufficient A/C oil levels result, which can cause additional failures.

DON’T: Use low quality re-manufactured or used parts. Every-time an A/C system must be opened, the refrigerant must be evacuated and at the completion of service, recharged. This part of the job usually costs around 110.00. Using cheap parts WILL result in a you spending additional money on your car!

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Why Your Steering Wheel Feels Stiff: Common Causes & Fixes in Newport News

March 20, 2025

At Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, we know that a smooth, responsive steering experience is essential for safe and comfortable driving. If you've ever encountered a stiff steering wheel, you know how concerning and frustrating it can be. Whether you're making tight turns or navigating through busy streets, a stiff steering wheel can significantly impact your driving experience. A stiff steering wheel often indicates that something isn’t quite right with your vehicle’s steering system. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most common causes of a stiff steering wheel and how Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA can help you resolve the issue, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and safely. The Importance of a Smooth Steering System Your vehicle’s steering system is a vital component for maintaining control of your car, truck, or SUV. A smooth and responsive steering system allows for precise control when navigating curves, parking, or driving at high speeds. If your steering feels stiff or unresponsive, it can make driving more difficult and potentially dangerous. Keeping your steering system in top condition is essential for your safety. Regular maintenance and addressing any steering issues promptly will ensure a more enjoyable driving experience and help you avoid costly repairs down the line. Common Causes of a Stiff Steering Wheel Several issues could cause your steering wheel to feel stiff. Let’s break down the most common causes and explain how Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA can help you address them. 1. Low Power Steering Fluid One of the most common causes of a stiff steering wheel is low or contaminated power steering fluid. Your vehicle’s power steering system relies on fluid to make steering more effortless, especially at lower speeds. If the fluid level is low or the fluid is dirty, it can cause the steering wheel to become stiff or difficult to turn. How It Happens: Power steering fluid can leak over time or degrade, reducing its effectiveness. Contaminated fluid can also cause the system to malfunction, resulting in hard steering. What to Do: If you suspect low or dirty power steering fluid, it’s essential to have it checked and replaced. At Pro Auto Repair , we can quickly assess your fluid levels, flush the system if necessary, and ensure the right fluid is added to keep your power steering system functioning smoothly. 2. Worn or Damaged Power Steering Pump The power steering pump is responsible for pushing the fluid through the power steering system. If the pump begins to wear out or break down, it can result in a stiff or unresponsive steering wheel. A faulty pump may also cause whining noises when turning the steering wheel. How It Happens: Over time, the power steering pump can become damaged due to wear and tear, excessive heat, or contamination in the fluid. What to Do: If you notice whining noises or difficulty turning the steering wheel, it's important to have your power steering pump checked. Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, can inspect your pump and replace it if necessary, restoring smooth steering. 3. Damaged Steering Rack or Tie Rods The steering rack and tie rods are essential components that connect your steering wheel to the wheels of your vehicle. If either of these parts becomes damaged, it can lead to stiff steering. A damaged steering rack can cause your steering wheel to feel tight or unresponsive, while damaged tie rods can lead to misalignment, which affects your vehicle’s handling. How It Happens: The steering rack and tie rods can become worn or damaged from age, rough driving conditions, or accidents. When they break down, your steering system will suffer, often resulting in stiffness. What to Do: If the steering rack or tie rods are damaged, it’s critical to have them replaced immediately. Pro Auto Repair offers professional steering system repairs, including steering rack replacement and tie rod replacements, to restore your vehicle's handling and steering precision. 4. Faulty Serpentine Belt The serpentine belt plays a key role in powering various components of your vehicle, including the power steering pump. If the serpentine belt becomes loose, worn, or damaged, it can prevent the power steering pump from working effectively, causing stiffness in the steering wheel. How It Happens: Over time, the serpentine belt can wear out or slip, reducing the amount of power sent to the power steering pump. This can result in reduced steering assist and make the steering wheel harder to turn. What to Do: Regular inspection and maintenance of the serpentine belt can help prevent this issue. If you notice your steering becoming stiff, have the belt checked at Pro Auto Repair , where we’ll ensure it’s properly tightened or replaced as needed. 5. Alignment Issues Your vehicle’s alignment affects how the wheels are positioned in relation to the steering components. When the wheels are misaligned, it can lead to uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, and, in some cases, a stiff steering wheel. Misalignment can also cause your vehicle to feel unstable while driving, especially at higher speeds. How It Happens: Misalignment can occur due to hitting a curb, driving over potholes, or general wear and tear on the suspension components. What to Do: If you’re experiencing a stiff steering wheel alongside pulling to one side or uneven tire wear, it’s a good idea to have your vehicle’s alignment checked. Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, offers professional wheel alignment services that will restore your vehicle's steering precision and improve overall handling. 6. Worn Out Steering Column or Bearings The steering column and bearings are part of the system that connects your steering wheel to the rest of your vehicle’s steering components. If these parts become worn out or damaged, it can cause the steering wheel to feel stiff or difficult to turn. How It Happens: Over time, the bearings can wear down, or the steering column can become misaligned, leading to stiffness in the wheel. This issue is more common in older vehicles or those with higher mileage. What to Do: If your steering wheel feels tight and you’ve ruled out other causes, it could be a sign of issues with the steering column or bearings. Our expert technicians at Pro Auto Repair can diagnose the issue and replace any worn-out components, restoring your steering system’s performance. How Pro Auto Repair Can Help in Newport News, VA At Pro Auto Repair , we specialize in steering system repairs and maintenance. If your steering wheel feels stiff, don’t wait for the problem to worsen—bring your vehicle in for a professional inspection. Our experienced technicians will assess the issue, whether it’s low power steering fluid, a faulty pump, worn-out components, or something else entirely. We’ll provide you with a reliable diagnosis and the necessary repairs to restore smooth steering and keep you safe on the road. Preventive Maintenance for Smooth Steering To keep your steering system in top shape and avoid stiff steering, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some preventive measures you can take: Check fluid levels regularly: Ensure your power steering fluid is topped off and replace it when it becomes dirty or contaminated. Inspect your steering system: Have your steering components, including the pump, rack, and tie rods, checked regularly for wear and tear. Maintain proper alignment: Get your vehicle’s alignment checked every year or whenever you notice signs of uneven tire wear or steering issues. By staying on top of these maintenance tasks, you can keep your steering system running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road. Schedule Your Steering System Check at Pro Auto Repair Today If your steering wheel feels stiff or unresponsive, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Schedule a professional inspection at Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, today. Our expert technicians will diagnose the issue and ensure your steering system is in optimal condition, so you can enjoy a safe and smooth ride.