A/C and Heating

Your vehicle's heating and AC systems (climate control system, for short) have a straightforward job. They simplify managing and maintaining the temperature in your cabin during drives. If you've ever wondered how they work, it's simple.

Heating systems, for instance, work a lot like radiators do. They send hot coolant through a heater core. A fan blows over it; the warm air that results then flows through a series of ducts, out vents, and into your vehicle's interior.

Air conditioners, on the other hand, work in stages, using several different parts -- namely, an AC compressor, an AC condenser, an expansion valve, and an evaporator. First, liquid refrigerant is transformed into a hot gas. Then, it cools down, back into a liquid. It's then turned into a low-pressure gas. Finally, after further chilling, cold air flows into your cabin.

No car HVAC system lasts indefinitely, however. Luckily, if you think that yours are going out, there are signs you can look for. They are:

• The sweet, syrup-like smell of coolant in the cabin
• Steam in the cabin
• Clogs in either or both systems
• Worn-out heating and AC parts
• A system simply not cooling or heating as well as it used to

The causes of heater and air conditioner problems in a car, though, range widely. They include a leaking heater core, leaking refrigerant, and low refrigerant levels. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it might be time for a repair or two. Do a thorough HVAC inspection to figure out what's happening.

Fix Your Car Heating and Air Conditioning the Right Way -- Rely on Genuine OEM Parts

Our auto parts store stocks the best for the job: genuine GM. You'll find plenty to choose from right here online; simply browse our catalog by brand, model, and year -- it'll help you find what you're looking for more easily. Buy them now, and we'll ship to your door ASAP -- you'll have the job done before you know it.