Every year it’s the same story. The first properly warm day arrives, you hit the air con button, and nothing happens. Or worse — it blows warm air and a vaguely unpleasant smell fills the cabin. By then, every garage in Liverpool has a queue of people wanting the same thing.
The smart move is to get your air conditioning checked before you actually need it. At Arrow Car Repairs in Wavertree, we see a rush of air con work every June and July. But the drivers who get it done in spring avoid the wait and often catch problems before they turn into bigger repairs
How Your Car’s Air Conditioning Works
Your car’s air con system works like a fridge. It uses a refrigerant gas (usually R134a or the newer R1234yf) that cycles through a compressor, condenser, and evaporator. As the gas compresses and expands, it absorbs heat from inside the cabin and releases it outside.
The key components are:
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Compressor — the heart of the system, driven by the engine via a belt
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Condenser — sits at the front of the car, releases heat like a radiator
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Evaporator — inside the dashboard, where cold air is actually produced
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Receiver/dryer — removes moisture from the refrigerant
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Expansion valve — controls the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator
Even when you’re not using the air con, the system loses a small amount of refrigerant through the seals and hoses. Over two or three years, the level can drop enough to affect performance or stop it working altogether.
Signs Your Air Con Needs Attention
Here’s what to look out for:
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Air isn’t as cold as it used to be — the most common sign of low refrigerant
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Musty or damp smell when you switch it on — usually bacteria buildup on the evaporator
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Unusual noises when the compressor kicks in — could be a worn clutch or low oil levels
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Windows fogging up inside — your air con also dehumidifies; if it’s not working, condensation builds
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Water pooling under the car — normal in small amounts, but excessive dripping may signal a blocked drain
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The system cuts out after a few minutes — often a pressure issue caused by low gas or a faulty sensor
What Does an Air Con Service Include?
A standard air con service — sometimes called a regas — involves recovering the old refrigerant, checking the system for leaks, and refilling it with the correct amount of fresh gas. We also add lubricant oil to keep the compressor running smoothly.
At Arrow Car Repairs, a typical air con service includes:
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Full system recovery and vacuum test
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Leak detection
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Recharge with correct refrigerant (R134a or R1234yf)
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Compressor oil top-up
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Temperature check at the vents
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Visual inspection of hoses, belts, and connections
If we find a leak or a faulty component during the service, we’ll let you know exactly what’s needed and what it’ll cost before going ahead. No guesswork, no pressure.
How Much Does an Air Con Regas Cost?
Prices depend on which type of refrigerant your car uses:
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R134a systems (older cars) — typically £50–£80 for a standard regas
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R1234yf systems (most cars from 2017 onwards) — usually £80–£130 due to the higher cost of the gas
If there’s a leak that needs fixing, or if the compressor or condenser has failed, that’s a separate repair. Compressor replacements can range from £300 to £700 depending on the vehicle. We’ll always give you a clear quote first.
Why Spring Is the Best Time to Get It Done
Getting your air con serviced in April or May has a few practical advantages. First, there’s less demand, so you can usually get booked in quickly. Second, if there’s a problem that needs parts, you’ve got time to sort it without sweating through a heatwave. And third, running your air con regularly — even in winter — keeps the seals lubricated and reduces the chance of leaks.
The AA recommends running your air con for at least 10 minutes a week all year round to keep the system in good condition. It’s a small habit that can save you money in the long run.
Air Con and Your Health
Your air con does more than cool you down. It also removes humidity from the cabin, which helps with demisting in winter and keeps the interior comfortable. But if the evaporator gets dirty, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mould. That’s where the musty smell comes from.
An antibacterial treatment as part of your air con service kills off the buildup and leaves your cabin smelling fresh. It’s especially worth doing if anyone in the car suffers from allergies or asthma.
Book Your Air Con Check at Arrow Car Repairs
We’re based at 6–8 Waterloo Street, Wavertree, Liverpool, L15 8JW. Getting your air con checked takes about an hour, and you’re welcome to wait or drop the car off.
Visit our air conditioning page for more details, or contact us to book in. Call 0151 733 3134 or message 07736 971735.
Related Services
While your car’s in, it might be worth looking at:
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Full car service — get everything checked in one visit
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MOT testing — if your test is due soon, combine it with your air con service
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Car diagnostics — if you’ve got a warning light alongside your air con issues
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Read our guide on keeping your car running right this winter — covers air con use in cold weather too
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get my air con regassed?
Most manufacturers recommend every two years. If you use it regularly, you might get away with longer, but a service every two years keeps the system in good shape.
Can I just top up the gas myself?
We wouldn’t recommend it. DIY regas kits don’t include a leak check or vacuum test, which means you could be topping up a system that’s leaking. You’d end up spending more in the long run.
My air con works but smells bad. What’s that?
It’s almost always bacteria or mould on the evaporator. An antibacterial treatment during a service sorts it out. It’s a quick add-on and makes a big difference.
Does using air con use more fuel?
Yes, slightly. The compressor puts extra load on the engine. But at motorway speeds, using air con is actually more efficient than driving with the windows down, which increases drag.
Is air con covered under my car’s warranty?
It depends on the manufacturer and the age of the car. Air con components are sometimes classed as wear items, so check your warranty terms. We can advise based on your specific vehicle.
Website: www.acrliverpool.co.ukPhone: 0151 733 3134Email: enquiries@acrliverpool.co.uk
Contact Arrow Car Repairs today to discuss your requirements. Our team is ready to help.
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