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Heating & Air Conditioning System Overview

The function of the heating and cooling system is to heat and cool the vehicle cabin and defrost the windows. Your heating and cooling system should be checked by a professional technician every 12 months or according to your owner’s manual. Any related maintenance should be handled only by professionals.

It is recommended to run your air conditioning regularly—even during the winter—because the system contains a PAG oil (R134a) or mineral oil (R12) in the refrigerant to keep the compressor properly lubricated. The general rule is to run the system about 10 minutes per month.

If you notice any of the following conditions, have your vehicle checked right away:

  1. Musty smell when the air condition or heating system is activated
  2. Inadequate cooling or heating when system is activated
  3. The vehicle’s temperature gauge indicates a “red” condition
  4. Steam coming from the engine compartment
  5. Unusual smells inside or outside the vehicle

If your engine is overheating while driving the following steps can alleviate the condition:

  1. Set the climate control system to “Heat”
  2. Set the blower fan on “High”
  3. Roll down your windows
  4. Allow more distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This enables your vehicle to “breathe” more easily

The above steps will help reduce heat on the system. If the overheating condition persists, pull over to the shoulder of the road and allow the engine to cool. As a precautionary measure, have your vehicle checked by a professional technician as soon as possible.