Your car's air conditioning system is something you probably notice most when it stops working properly.

A well-maintained air conditioner should provide consistent cooling and help keep the cabin comfortable. If the system is becoming less effective, producing unusual smells or making unexpected noises, it may be time to have it checked.

For drivers in Mittagong and the surrounding areas, Southern Highlands Service Centre (AU42890) provides automotive air conditioning servicing and repairs.

The appropriate maintenance schedule depends on the vehicle, its air conditioning system, its age, how it is used and its condition

A good approach is to have the air conditioning system checked when you notice a change in performance, or as part of an appropriate vehicle inspection or service.

If your air conditioner continues to operate correctly, it may not require a separate air conditioning service at every scheduled engine service.

These include components such as the compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant circuit, electrical controls and associated hoses and connections. Over time, components can wear, seals can deteriorate and faults can develop. A reduction in cooling performance can also have a number of possible causes.

Having the system checked can help identify the underlying problem rather than simply treating the symptom.

The air isn't getting as cold as it used to
A noticeable reduction in cooling performance is one of the most obvious signs. If the air conditioner is running but the cabin isn't cooling as effectively as it previously did, there may be an issue with the system that requires diagnosis.

The air conditioner takes a long time to cool the cabin
If cooling seems unusually slow, particularly when the system used to perform better, it's worth having the system checked.

There are unusual smells
Unpleasant or unusual smells from the vents can indicate that the air conditioning or ventilation system requires attention. A smell doesn't necessarily mean the same fault every time, so proper diagnosis is important.

You hear unusual noises
Unusual noises when the air conditioner is switched on can indicate that a component requires inspection. Grinding, rattling, squealing or other sounds should not simply be ignored.

The air conditioning works intermittently
If the system sometimes produces cold air and sometimes doesn't, there may be an electrical, mechanical or refrigerant-related problem. Intermittent faults can become more difficult to diagnose if they are allowed to continue, so it's sensible to have the system checked.

The windows are taking longer to demist
Your vehicle's air conditioning system can also assist with clearing moisture from the cabin and demisting windows. If the system isn't performing as expected, it may affect how quickly the vehicle's windows clear.

If cooling performance changes or you notice a leak, unusual noise, smell or other problem, the system should be inspected.

A qualified technician can assess the system and determine what attention is required.

Air conditioning diagnosis and repair may require additional testing and specialist equipment.

If you're booking a regular service and have noticed that the air conditioner isn't performing properly, tell your mechanic. This allows the issue to be considered separately rather than assuming it will automatically be covered by a routine service.

• Vehicle age
• Wear to components
• Refrigerant leaks
• Electrical faults
• Blocked or restricted components
• Problems with the compressor
• Condenser or evaporator issues
• Problems with controls or sensors

This is why accurate diagnosis is important before deciding what repairs are required.

Our workshop holds ARCTick Authorisation AU42890 for automotive air conditioning work.

If your vehicle's air conditioner isn't cooling properly or you've noticed an unusual smell, noise or change in performance, Southern Highlands Service Centre can inspect the system and advise on the appropriate repair or servicing requirements.

To arrange Car Airconditioning service or inspection, visit our Car Air Conditioning Service page or contact Southern Highlands Service Centre for advice.

If you're also due for your regular vehicle service, you can read our related guide: How Often Should You Service Your Car?