ac condenser fan motor
Automobile Maintenance

5 Warning Signs of a Failing AC Condenser Fan Motor

Has your AC been acting strange lately?

Has cooling been reduced? Is it leaking?

Problems with the AC condenser fan motor can be diagnosed during service maintenance. Although many people fail to keep up with it, you should service your vehicle every six months or 6000 miles.

Read through this guide to find out what may be happening with your car’s AC and how you can go about fixing it.

If your car happens to be making a strange noise, you should read our guide on top noises you can’t ignore.

AC Condenser Fan Motor

The most vital component of your AC system is its condenser. It cools refrigerant, which is what allows cooling to occur.

Signs of failure can vary, and they all can lead to different – and sometimes expensive – problems.

Reduced Cooling

One of the most common signs of a failing AC condenser fan motor is reduced cooling. If damage to the condenser results in restriction of refrigerant flow, the whole system will be less efficient.

There could also be a problem with the fan itself. It may be engaging or coming on too late.

When this happens, air flow reduces and so does cooling.

Noticeable Leaks

Another common and more obvious sign is leakage. The condenser can leak due to age or general wear and tear.

Depending on the location of the leak and how big it is, your high-pressure refrigerant will all leak out over time. This will disable the whole AC system.

Because of its role in the refrigeration cycle, your AC condenser should be positioned near ambient air. In most cases, it’s behind the front bumper.

If you find there’s a large leak, you should consider replacing it. If you decide to go this route, your system must be evacuated and refilled by a professional.

In the event of a small leak, you should be fine just repairing the leak.

Bad Odors

In colder months, bacteria and other micro-organisms are more likely to develop. Your car’s AC will have a damp interior, creating a breeding ground for them. This results in the odor.

This also becomes a problem as the car ages and infrequent use of the AC.

When left untreated, bacteria can grow fast, becoming a much larger problem. It can even cause respiratory problems for those using the vehicle.

Overheating While Idling

When this problem occurs, it may be because of your cooling fan. It’s designed to push air into the radiator which improves its cooling ability.

When the fan fails, the radiator can’t cool the engine. This is especially true in the summer when the situation becomes worse.

Fix Your AC and Enjoy the Breeze

There are a few reasons why your AC condenser fan motor may not be working up to par. Some have cheaper solutions than others.

No matter which one you’re experiencing, all symptoms demand immediate attention. These problems can become worse over time.

If the problem is allowed to grow, you can be looking at a full condenser replacement. In the event that you need one, check out the prices of condenser fan motors from Dreisilker.

If you’re not an expert, don’t fret. Dreisilker has a toll free phone number and a live chat agent to help you through the process.

Once it’s fixed, shine up your car with a DIY wax job and get back on the road.