Air conditioning (AC) is a crucial component in modern-day automobiles, providing comfort and convenience to drivers and passengers during hot weather conditions.
However, AC systems can sometimes fail or malfunction. This is also true for the Honda Accord, a popular mid-size sedan that has been known for its reliability and comfort.
In case of the AC in Honda Accord not working, it can be a frustrating experience for the driver and passengers. In this article, I will explore some common reasons.
Why Is AC In Honda Accord Not Working?
Why is my 2018 Honda Accord AC not working?
This issue can have multiple potential causes, including but not limited to low refrigerant levels, a faulty compressor, a failed blower motor, a faulty blend door actuator, or a clogged or blocked AC component.
A qualified mechanic should diagnose and repair the major issue to restore proper AC function.
Clogged Cabin Air Filter
A clogged cabin air filter can make the Honda Accord air conditioner not work correctly. The cabin air filter filters the air that flows through the AC system and into the vehicle’s cabin.
If the filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow and cause the AC system to work harder to cool the air, which can result in the AC not working efficiently or not working at all.
A cabin air filter can be clogged due to mold or mildew growth on the filter or in the AC system.
Dirty Condenser
The air conditioning condenser is an essential component of the AC system in a Honda Accord, and its role is to release heat from the refrigerant that circulates through the system.
As the refrigerant flows through the condenser, it releases heat to the surrounding air, which allows it to cool down and continue circulating through the AC system.
When the condenser becomes dirty or clogged with debris, such as dirt, leaves, or insects, it can obstruct the airflow through the condenser, preventing the heat from dissipating properly.
As a result, the AC system has to work harder to cool the air, which can cause the system to malfunction.
Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is a vital component of the AC system in a Honda Accord, and it is responsible for cooling the air that circulates through the system.
When there is a refrigerant leak in the AC system, it can cause the system to malfunction, and the AC may turn on and off randomly.
When refrigerant leaks from the AC system, it restricts the amount of refrigerant in the system, making it difficult for the AC compressor to circulate the refrigerant effectively.
The AC compressor is designed to compress the refrigerant and circulate it through the AC system, so when there is a lack of refrigerant, the compressor may not be able to function correctly.
Furthermore, I noticed refrigerant leaks also brought damage to other components of the AC system, such as the AC condenser or evaporator, leading to more extensive repairs.
Dirty Evaporator
The evaporator absorbs heat from the air that flows through the system.
As the warm air passes through the evaporator, the refrigerant in the AC system draws in the heat, cooling the air down and circulating it through the car’s interior.
I sensed more heat in the cabin when debris and dust found their way into the evaporator.
This can force the refrigerant in the AC system to remain too warm, preventing it from cooling the air effectively and leading to warm or hot air blowing from the AC system.
If the evaporator is dirty, it will also overload the AC compressor, ending up with premature failure and the need for more repairs.
Damaged Fan Motor
The fan motor is designed to move air through the AC system, so when it is damaged, the airflow becomes insufficient to cool down the air inside my cabin.
In this case, I had to endure more warm or hot air instead of cool air blown out from the AC.
It is essential to have the fan motor inspected and repaired promptly to ensure that the AC system works efficiently and reliably.
Compressor Failure
The compressor is a crucial component of the AC system in a Honda Accord, and its primary function is to compress the refrigerant and circulate it through the AC system to cool the air.
There are several reasons why a compressor may fail, including a lack of refrigerant, a refrigerant leak, or an electrical or mechanical failure.
A compressor failure hinders the refrigerant from circulating through the AC system, which then gives off hot air instead of cool one.
Furthermore, a defective compressor can also cause damage to other components of the AC system, such as the condenser, evaporator, or expansion valve.
Bad Blower Motor
The blower motor in a Honda Accord is responsible for pushing air through the AC system and into the car’s interior.
A bad blower motor can cause the airflow to become weak or nonexistent, so the AC ceases working (or works ineffectively).
At the hands of a malfunctioning blower motor, other AC system components, such as the evaporator, condenser, or compressor, are also at risk of failure.
I have experienced this twice because of my delay in fixing. Don’t ever follow my footsteps!
Faulty Blend Door Actuator
The blend door actuator in a Honda Accord is responsible for controlling the direction and temperature of the air that flows from the AC system into the cabin.
This component works by opening and closing a door that controls airflow through the AC system.
If the actuator is faulty, the door may not open or close correctly, resulting in the air not flowing properly through the system. Issues, such as no cool air or only warm air from the vents, will arise.
The car’s AC can stop operating when this problem isn’t solved on time.
Signs Of A Broken Bleeder Valve
Warm Air Blowing From The Vents
The first and most obvious indicator of a failed car air conditioner is the Honda Accord AC not cold enough.
Most of you will reply that a simple AC gas refill will solve the problem. However, this is not always the case.
If you have your car’s air conditioning repaired on a regular basis and it still fails to deliver cold air like it used to, your AC compressor may be a problem.
In case the compressor cannot regulate the refrigerant flow correctly, it can make the Honda Accord ac not blowing cold air.
Unusual Loud Noises
Whenever I catched strange noises in your Honda Accord’s AC system, I knew for sure that the AC was at fault.
Any loose or damaged component in the AC system will give off unusual noises. For example, a loose or damaged belt can generate a squealing or screeching noise.
As mentioned, when the compressor fails, it will produce weird sounds, such as grinding or rattling.
It’s best to inspect it by a qualified mechanic to determine and repair the root cause.
Ignoring unusual noises can lead to more significant issues and potentially more costly repairs down the road.
Bad Odors
Moisture can accumulate in the AC system, particularly in the evaporator, and create a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, producing bad odors.
Furthermore, contaminants can enter the AC system when the air filters are clogged or broken.
They can trap moisture and promote mold and bacteria growth, leading to AC pee odors or other unpleasant stenches.
In case of a refrigerant leak in the AC system, it will create a sweet, pungent odor.
Not only can bad odors be unpleasant, but they can also pose a health hazard by exposing passengers to mold, bacteria, and other contaminants.
Reduced Airflow
A faulty AC system in a Honda Accord can be linked to reduced airflow. The main culprit of this issue is a failed blower motor.
If the blower motor is faulty, it may not be able to pump enough airflow.
A clog or blockage in any of the AC components, such as the evaporator or condenser, restricts the airflow in the system.
Some issues above (the reasons section) will manifest this sign. Thus, you should check the related component to identify the root.
AC System Doesn’t Turn On
Once when the problem was too bad, I couldn’t even turn the AC on. It can happen when you leave the issue for a long time without taking any solution.
Many relevant components have broken, such as a blown fuse or circuit breaker, a faulty compressor, failed fan relays or wiring, low refrigerant levels, etc.
When you see any abnormal AC sign, you should find the reason as soon as possible. It minimizes damage to other parts and cuts down your Honda Accord AC repair bill.
How To Repair AC System Failure In Honda Accords
Repairing AC system failure in a Honda Accord depends on the underlying cause of the problem. Here are some common steps that can help diagnose and fix AC system failures:
- Check the refrigerant level: Low refrigerant levels can trigger the AC system to malfunction. A professional mechanic can check the refrigerant level and add more if necessary.
- Inspect the AC compressor: The AC compressor compresses the refrigerant and circulates it through the AC system. If the compressor is broken, it needs to be replaced.
- Replace the AC fuse: A blown AC fuse is to blame for the AC system not working. A mechanic can check the fuses and replace any that are blown.
- Clean or replace the air filter: A clogged or dirty air filter can hinder airflow and wreak havoc on the AC system. The air filter can be cleaned or replaced to fix this issue.
- Check for leaks: If refrigerant leaks, the AC system may not work correctly. Bring it to an auto shop to inspect for leaks and repair them.
- Replace faulty AC controls: When the AC controls, such as the AC button or temperature controls, are faulty, they must be replaced.
Repairing AC system failure in a Honda Accord requires diagnosing the underlying cause of the problem and then fixing or replacing the affected components.
It is best to have a professional mechanic perform these repairs to ensure they are done correctly and safely.
Conclusion
The AC in Honda Accord not working can be a frustrating experience for Honda Accord drivers and passengers, especially during hot weather conditions.
However, identifying the symptoms and underlying causes of AC system failure and taking the necessary steps to repair them can help restore the comfort and convenience of a functional AC system.
By addressing AC system failure promptly, Honda Accord owners can enjoy a cool and comfortable driving experience all year round.