There’s nothing more frustrating than hopping into your car on a scorching day, cranking up the AC, and waiting. And still sweating while your car AC takes a while to get cold.
If you’ve found yourself wondering why your car AC takes a while to get cold, you’re definitely not alone. Let’s break down why this happens, what’s normal, and what you can do about it, without the confusing jargon. Just clear, easy talk, like we’re having a chat over a coffee while your car’s parked outside.
How Long Does It Usually Take for a Car AC to Get Cold?
Ideally, your car AC will begin to blow cool air in not more than 5 minutes, when you have started driving. Sometimes, due to some issues with your car AC, it takes time to get cold by 10-15 minutes up to eternity when the temperature of the traffic reaches more than 100 degrees.
But, why does it take as long? Well, it may take some time to have your AC system cool the very hot air which is trapped into your car and go through the cooling process.
When it becomes longer than 15 minutes, then it means something is not right.
Also Read: How Long Does It Take For A Car AC To Cool Down?
Find out why your Car AC takes its time coming cold
1. Your car was lying in the sun
When they leave the house, cars become ovens in the sun. The AC needs to force all the hot air sitting in your car, out to cool the air. This is why it seems that the AC is taking its sweet time considering that you are parked in the sun all day long.
Quick Tip: Roll down your windows for a minute or two while you start driving to let out hot air faster.
2. Low Refrigerant Levels
Your AC relies on refrigerant to cool the air, and if it’s low, your car AC will take a while to get cold. Refrigerant leaks can happen over time, and without enough of it, your AC struggles to cool the air efficiently.
3. Dirty Cabin Air Filter
The cabin air filter keeps dust and debris out of your car’s air conditioning system. However, when it becomes clogged, airflow is reduced, keeping you wondering why my car ac takes long to get cold. Imagine attempting to drink a thick milkshake using a tiny straw, slow and frustrating.
4. AC Compressor Delay
Why ac compressor starts after 2-3 minutes is a common question in people’s mind? It’s not unusual. The compressor might delay to prevent engine strain during startup, especially if your car has an automatic system to protect engine health.
However, if the delay feels too long or the air never really gets cold, it’s worth getting it checked during your car air conditioning service.
5. Issues With The AC Compressor Or Condenser
The compressor is like the heart of your AC system, and the condenser helps remove heat from the refrigerant. If either has issues, your car AC takes a while to turn on or won’t cool efficiently.
Common signs include warm air blowing for too long or odd noises when you turn on the AC.
What You Can Do If Your Car AC Takes Forever to Get Cold
Nobody wants to feel like they’re sitting in an oven while waiting for their AC to cool down. The good news? You don’t have to keep suffering through sweaty drives. Here’s what you can do to help your AC cool faster and keep you comfortable:
1. Check and replace your cabin air filter regularly
Think of your cabin air filter like your car’s lungs. If it’s clogged with dust and gunk, your AC can’t breathe properly, making it work harder and cool slower. Changing it regularly can make a big difference.
Also Read: How Often To Replace Cabin Air Filter In A Car?
2. Get your refrigerant checked
Your AC needs refrigerant to blow cold air. If the levels are low, it will struggle to cool your car, and you’ll be stuck in a sauna on wheels. A quick refrigerant top-up during your car air conditioning service or when you’re in for your car service in Perth can sort this out.
3. Start with low fan speed
It’s tempting to blast your AC on high the second you hop in, but here’s the thing: high speed can just push warm air around at first. Let it cool gradually by starting on a lower fan setting before you crank it up.
4. Park in the shade
Whenever you can, grab that shady parking spot or throw a sunshade on your windshield. The less heat trapped inside, the faster your AC can cool things down when you start driving.
5. Book an AC check-up
If your AC is taking longer than usual or doesn’t get as cold as it used to, don’t ignore it. A quick car aircon service can catch small issues before they turn into expensive problems later.
Also Read: Why Does My Car Air Conditioning Smell?
When Should You Visit a Mechanic?
If you’ve tried these steps and your car AC still takes forever to cool, it’s probably time to call in the pros. A trusted car mechanic Perth can figure out what’s really going on, whether it’s a refrigerant leak, a faulty compressor, or an electrical issue.
A professional auto mechanic in Perth can also check your system’s pressure, clean out blockages, and make sure everything’s working properly so you can get back to enjoying cool, comfortable drives without stress.
Conclusion
When you are on your way to work, and the car ac takes long time to get cold, you do not need to end up being sweaty and sticky. Your little trick such as parking under a shade, availing AC servicing and putting in new filters can give a huge relief to your car with regard to cooling it.
And even when you still have troubles with your AC, do not delay on checking it till you get to the hottest summer day in the year. Instead of having larger headaches (and sweat patches) down the line, just book car aircon service or book general car repair with a reputable auto mechanic in Perth first.
Hang loose, safe driving and have fun, even during the hot summer days.
Also Read: Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Car Cabin Air Filter
FAQs
1. Why does my car AC take so long to get cold in the mornings?
Answer:
Overnight, warm air gets trapped inside your car, and your AC needs a few minutes to clear it out and start cooling. If it’s taking more than 15 minutes, it’s a good idea to get it checked.
2. How long should it take for my car AC to get cold while driving?
Answer:
Ideally, you should feel cool air within about five minutes once you’re on the road. If it’s taking 15 minutes or more, your AC might need servicing.
3. Why does my AC compressor only kick in after 2–3 minutes?
Answer:
Some cars are designed to delay the AC compressor to protect the engine during startup. If it’s taking longer than usual or feels off, have your mechanic take a look.
4. What if my car AC never gets cold?
Answer:
If your AC isn’t cooling at all, it could be due to low refrigerant, a blocked filter, or a faulty compressor. Booking a car air conditioning service will help find and fix the issue.
5. Is fixing a slow-cooling car AC expensive?
Answer:
Not always. Sometimes, it’s a simple, affordable fix like replacing a filter or topping up refrigerant. If it’s a bigger issue like a faulty compressor, costs will vary, so it’s best to get a quote from your car mechanic in Perth.
