When summer temperatures start to climb, there's nothing more important than a working air conditioning system in your vehicle. But if your A/C is blowing warm air—or not blowing at all—it may be due to a refrigerant leak. At Auto Select, we specialize in A/C leak testing and preventative maintenance to keep your vehicle comfortable and your system running efficiently all year long.

Why A/C Leak Testing Matters

Your car’s air conditioning relies on a closed-loop system filled with refrigerant. If even a small leak develops, refrigerant can escape, causing the system to underperform—or fail entirely. Over time, leaks can also allow moisture and contaminants into the system, leading to corrosion or damage to critical components like the compressor.

Since A/C refrigerant is colorless and evaporates quickly, leaks aren’t always visible to the naked eye. That’s why professional leak testing is essential when diagnosing A/C problems.

How We Perform A/C Leak Detection

At Auto Select, we use specialized tools and UV dye to locate even the smallest refrigerant leaks. Here’s how it works:

• Visual Inspection: We check all hoses, fittings, seals, and components for visible signs of wear or oil residue that could indicate a leak.
• UV Dye and Detection: We inject a special UV dye into the system, then use a black light to trace any escaping refrigerant.
• Electronic Leak Detector: For pinpoint accuracy, we also use electronic sniffers that detect the chemical makeup of refrigerant gases.
• System Pressure Test: We evaluate system pressures to determine if your A/C is functioning within factory specifications.

Once the leak is identified, we’ll explain your repair options and get your system sealed and recharged.

A/C Maintenance: More Than Just Cold Air

Even if your air conditioning seems to be working fine, regular A/C maintenance can help avoid costly breakdowns down the road. Preventive services include:

• Refrigerant Recharge: Topping off low refrigerant levels to restore cooling performance.
• Cabin Air Filter Replacement: Ensuring clean airflow and preventing odors or allergens inside the vehicle.
• Compressor and Belt Checks: Verifying the heart of your A/C system is in top shape.
• System Clean-Out: Removing debris, bacteria, and mold buildup that can affect air quality and performance.
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Signs You Might Have an A/C Leak

Not sure if your system needs a checkup? Watch for these common symptoms:

• Warm or inconsistent airflow
• Unusual smells coming from vents
• Hissing sounds when the A/C is on
• Fogged-up windows not clearing quickly
• Visible oily residue on A/C components



Don’t Sweat It—Let Auto Select Help

Whether your A/C system is struggling to keep up or you just want peace of mind before summer road trips, our team at Auto Select is here to help. We’ll run a full diagnostic test, pinpoint any leaks, and keep your cooling system working its best.

Schedule your A/C leak test and maintenance service today at one of our 12 Wisconsin locations!

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