Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

How do you check a car’s A/C condenser?

What should I do to check that my car’s A/C condenser is working properly? I’ve been having problems with my cooling system, and I think that’s the issue. I’d rather not pay for an expensive diagnosis on top of repairs, so I’d like to identify the problem before I bring it into the shop.

avatar
Liz Jenson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
A/C problems can be frustrating—especially in the summer months! Since the air conditioning system is complex, it can be hard to narrow down the issue. But these telltale signs can help you identify a faulty A/C condenser:
  • Your A/C emits a burning smell.
  • Your A/C puts out lukewarm air rather than cold air.
  • You see a warning light on your dashboard.
  • There is a coolant leakage.
  • Your car overheats when idling.
If you notice any of these issues, then it’s likely you have a condenser problem. Bring your car into a mechanic and tell them what you think the problem might be. As professionals, they’ll still need to give everything a quick check—but you might save time and money if they start by checking the condenser.
To offset the cost of professional repairs, start saving on car insurance with
Jerry
. A licensed broker, the Jerry app helps users save an average of nearly $900 a year on car insurance. Just download the app, answer some quick questions—and Jerry will help you compare quotes from up to 50 top providers like Progressive and Nationwide!
MORE: Why your car heater is blowing cold air
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings