AC & Heating Repair in Dallas, TX

Intermittent cooling is usually caused by a system that is low on refrigerant due to a slow leak. When the refrigerant level drops below a certain point, the low-pressure switch cuts the compressor off to protect it. It may also be caused by a failing compressor clutch, a sticking expansion valve, or a cycling pressure switch. A proper diagnosis will pinpoint which component is causing the intermittent behavior.

The cans of refrigerant sold at auto parts stores will temporarily mask the problem, but they also add sealant chemicals and often result in overcharging the system. Overcharging reduces cooling performance and can damage the compressor. More importantly, if you have a leak, the refrigerant will just leak out again. A proper repair finds and fixes the leak so the system stays cold for years, not days.

It depends entirely on the problem. A simple recharge after a minor leak repair might be $150 to $300. A compressor replacement typically runs $600 to $1,200 depending on the vehicle. An evaporator replacement is the most expensive common repair at $800 to $1,800 because it requires removing the dashboard. We always diagnose first and give you a clear estimate before starting any repair.

A sweet, syrupy smell is almost always engine coolant leaking through the heater core into the cabin. The heater core is a small radiator inside the dashboard. When it develops a leak, coolant sprays as a fine mist onto the inside of the windshield and you will smell it. This needs immediate attention because it will eventually cause overheating and the coolant is toxic.