How To Fix The Air Con in an Audi A3 e-Tron
German-made cars are some of the most reliable in the automotive world. In fact, these vehicles can often run for a lifetime without you facing any issues. But as is the nature of man-made machines, reliability issues are never out of the question.
Unfortunately, our client drew the short end of the stick in this matter and came to Fitch Autos with a query about his Audi A3. He complained that the car’s AC system was not working properly. Normally that isn’t too much of an issue, and AC repairs can be delayed for a few days or even weeks. But with the type of heat, we are experiencing in the UK nowadays, a working AC system has become a necessity.
Unfazed by the looming urgency, our technician got to work immediately.
What We Found
On first inspection, our expert technician Matt confirmed that the complete AC system was in fact not working. He started to dig deeper to find the root cause of the issue.
Matt started with our 15-step diagnostic procedure and checked the A3 for any fault codes. The search, unfortunately, turned up nothing relevant to the investigation. So, he shifted his focus and started to trace the entire AC system back to the source in order to find the problematic element(s).
Using the comprehensive 15-step diagnostic procedure, our seasoned technician was able to reach the core and correctly diagnose the problem.
Other garages may have missed or overlooked the main issue, but at Fitch Autos, we strive for our client’s satisfaction, and that helped motivate Matt to do his job better.
The Diagnosis
Matt used the 15-step diagnostic procedure and began the process by testing each AC component to the fullest.
First, he performed an AC pressure test to ensure the proper function of the compression mechanism.
Why is that required? Well, such an examination is necessary because optimum pressure in the AC system is the backbone of a working AC. Without the right amount of pressure, the compressor can’t function properly, resulting in no cooling.
A loss of pressure can be a result of a leak in the pipes or the other parts of the AC system. So, that is what our technician Matt looked at next. He had to ensure there wasn’t even a tiny leak in the system. To do this, Matt visually inspected the lines and searched for leakages, especially in heavily prone areas.
Then followed a fault code check and live data analysis to confirm the system was working as expected.
During the procedure, Matt also kept consulting the dealer information to see if all the fluids and pressure readings were at the optimum level.
But it was evident, after the diagnosis, that there was a fundamental issue with the AC system. Fortunately, for Matt, no mountain is too high to climb, and so he set out to surmount any possible challenge. Such is the commitment of the technicians working at Fitch Autos.
Fixing the AC Problem
Matt started at the bottom and built his way up to fix the AC. Fortunately, the issue was not as big as initially thought. That is usually the case with air-conditioning systems. When they fail, you fear the worst. But most of the time, a simple service and gas refilling can solve the problem.
Our client had some loose connections in the system that led to a gas leak, which affected the pressure, and cooling was the first to take a hit. Matt, therefore, ensured all the connections and links were tightened up properly before beginning the service.
He began by draining the oil inside the AC system and then replacing it with a fresh supply of compressor oil.
As a person reading about AC systems for the first time, you might wonder what oil has to do in air-conditioning. Well, the oil has several things to take care of, and all of them are pretty important. First, the oil acts as a lubricant to keep the compressor components free of friction. It also helps dissipate heat and seal the important bits from outer elements.
Sounds interesting, right? Oil is used in so many places inside a vehicle, and we are mostly unaware. But now you know, thanks to this issue found in the Audi A3 e-Tron.
Once Matt replenished the system with a sufficient amount of compressor oil, he moved on to add a diagnostic measure in case of future leaks. He poured some UV dye into the system so that any leaks are clearly visible in the future.
But isn’t there a way to completely prevent future leaks? Well, there are ways to do that, but nothing is completely foolproof. Leaks can materialise due to a change in the system’s pressure or by accident. So, it is better to protect yourself from unwanted misery and confusion by adding a UV dye to the system.
The dye isn’t visible to the naked eye, but you can see it using UV light. You can buy a UV flashlight and keep it at home visually inspect your car every few months. The measure saves time and precious money.
If not, Matt from Fitch Autos is always ready to help. In the same way, he helped the Audi A3 owner with the AC.
After Matt replenished the system with oil and added the UV dye, he moved towards recycling the refrigerant.
The gas or refrigerant is the key ingredient needed to make cool air. It must always be in the right quantity for the AC to work perfectly.
If there is a leak, it is this particular gas that leaves the system. You can see how important the refrigerant is to the entire system. So, you must replenish the reserves by removing the old gas and regassing with the right amount.
Our technician did exactly that as he adjusted the A3’s AC. After which, he added the final touches. This includes decontaminating the entire AC system to rid it of all the bacteria, germs, and smells. Finally, the AC was rechecked and confirmed to be working fine.
Summary
Our client complained about an AC malfunction and wasted no time coming straight to Fitch Autos. The technician at our garage inspected the car, diagnosed the issue using our 15-step diagnostic procedure, and solved it in a few hours.
Keep in mind that the Audi A3 e-Tron is a plug-in hybrid vehicle. Such cars must be handled with extreme care, or an accident could materialise. Luckily, our technicians are trained in the care of hybrid and electric vehicles. Matt is level 4 EV certified, so he is the man you can trust with such repairs.
But other than that, the morals instilled in our technicians are what impresses our clients the most. Matt suggested no unnecessary repairs or replacement of parts. At Fitch Autos, we pride ourselves on providing the best customer care. Not only do we solve your car’s issue in a timely manner, but we do it efficiently and economically.
It is only at Fitch Autos that you get access to such expertise and great value for money. If you are looking for help with your vehicle’s Air Conditioning, whether you drive an Audi, BMW, Mercedes or something else, don’t hesitate to call us at 01543 401 255 and talk to our experts.
