Air Conditioning Service and Repair

With summer temperatures consistently in the 90s here in the Rio Rancho and Albuquerque area, we know how important it is to have properly working A/C in our vehicles. Our techs at American Tire and Service are all ASE master certified in air conditioning, including r1234yf and other refrigerant recharges.

Without regular maintenance, your vehicle’s air conditioner can lose about 5% of its original efficiency per year. Without proper maintenance, your air conditioning unit may be performing as poorly as other models of vehicles that are years older! Schedule an appointment with one of the American Tire and Service’s factory-trained professionals—we understand all aspects of AC repair, from modern computerized components to environmental disposal concerns. Turn to us, your qualified source for everything related to your air conditioning system. We’re conveniently located in Rio Rancho near Highway 528 and Ridgecrest.

Cooling System Maintenance is important.

American Tire and Service in Rio Rancho recommends drivers have a seven point preventative cooling system maintenance check performed on their vehicle at least once every two years. Consult your vehicle owner’s manual to see if more specific guidelines are recommended by the manufacturer. The cooling system inspection identifies areas that need attention, and includes the following services:

We’ll visually inspection all cooling system components, including belts and hoses
A radiator cap pressure test is done to check the recommended system pressure level
A thermostat check for proper opening and closing
A pressure test to identify external leaks to the cooling system parts including the radiator, water pump, engine coolant passages, radiator, heater hoses and heater core
An internal leak test to check for combustion gas leakage into the cooling system
Cooling System Operation
The Cooling System of your vehicle carries heat away from the engine and maintains the operating temperature by circulating anti-freeze or coolant through the engine, carrying it to the radiator for cooling.

Modern automobiles operate in a wide temperature range, from well below freezing to over 100 F in our New Mexico climate. The fluid used to cool the engine must have a low freezing point, high boiling point, and the ability to transfer heat. An adequate amount of antifreeze/coolant and water reduces the possibility of engine over-heating and freezing, as well as contains additives to prevent rust and corrosion in the cooling system.

Water holds heat well; however, water alone freezes at a temperature too high to be used in engines. The fluid in most vehicles mixes water and antifreeze or coolant in a proper mixture, which improves the boiling and freezing points significantly.

Coolant temperatures sometimes reach 250 to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. Even with antifreeze added, these temperatures boil the coolant. To prevent boiling, the cooling system raises the coolant boiling point by pressurizing it. Most systems pressurize coolant at 14 to 15 pounds per square inch (psi) which raises the boiling point approximately 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

Our skilled technicians at American Tire and Service know the importance of a properly working cooling system. Visit our central Rio Rancho auto shop or call or email us today for a thorough inspection.