Air Con
If your car has air conditioning, you probably already know that it is supposed to do more than just keep you cool. When serviced correctly, car air conditioning helps filter out pollen, pollutants and airborne bacteria. It’s a multi-purpose component for your car providing heat, cool air and improving the quality of air inside the cabin. An air conditioning service is not included in a normal car service schedule so people often forget to have it checked. If your car is older than 2 years or maybe you’ve never had the air conditioning serviced, perhaps now is a good time. We also recommend that you use your air conditioning all year round even if only for one or two short trips every week. You might be surprised to learn that this helps keep the system well-lubricated and prevents leaks. You should especially book your car air con service when:
- it no longer blows cool air
- you notice a bad smells coming from the vents
- it starts making strange noises
- there are visible leaks
How often should I have it re-gassed or recharged?
The gas, or refrigerant, in your air conditioning unit, is essential for the system and all the components to work effectively. Your car’s air con needs regular maintenance to ensure that it functions as effectively as it should. Your vehicle owner’s manual will also provide you with more specific requirements for your car. In terms of recharging your air conditioning, most vehicle manufacturers recommend doing it every two years. This applies whether or not you use your air con every day or not at all. Regardless of how it is used, refrigerant will continue to permeate over time so a top-up is necessary. Remember, less gas means less cool air which is why refilling it every few years will keep it in good condition.
How long does a car air con repair, service or recharge take?
A car air con recharge usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour. The process involves a thorough systems check and completely removing the old gas and refilling it with fresh refrigerant. It also includes a vacuum test to ensure that there are no cracks or damage in your car air con system that could cause leaks. If we discover a leak or any faults, our friendly and professional technicians will discuss any recommended repairs. We will provide you with a no-obligation quote and will only carry out work with your consent. In addition to Elite Garages’ air conditioning service, we also offer our customers an optional air sanitizer from £10. This is an antibacterial cleaner that helps remove nasty smells and the build-up of harmful bacteria in your system and the vents. If you are experiencing any trouble with your car air con, call us to book your recharge, visit your local centre or book an appointment online. Using a professional, friendly, family-owned service centre like Elite Garages will certainly put your mind at ease. Our qualified, experienced technicians are on hand to provide you with the expert knowledge and the quality service you deserve.
FAQs
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Yes, you certainly can and it’s often something we recommend. In fact, around 95% of the time our customers get a premium or standard service with their MOT. Click these links to find out what’s included in an MOT and what’s the difference between a Service and an MOT
Categories:
Newport,
Portsmouth
Depending on the type of service, checks may include the engine oil, oil filter, lights, tyres, bodywork, exhausts, brakes, steering, fluid and coolant levels, suspension and 12V battery. We will always explain this in detail, providing a list of what’s included and what’s not.
Categories:
Brakes,
Portsmouth
Manufacturers have different recommendations but the general consensus is to replace your brakes when only 20% of the original thickness remains. Brake pads can last between 25,000 and 60,000 miles while brake discs anywhere from 80,000 to 120,000 miles. Remember, your driving habits can also impact the brake replacement intervals.
Categories:
Brakes,
Portsmouth
The price of brakes varies greatly as it depends on the vehicle and brake specification. At Elite Garages, new brakes cost anywhere FROM £80 but please note prices may be subject to change without prior notice.
Rapids are also budget tyres but they are more high-end and rated as premium economy. Whilst they provide more grip than standard budget tyres, Rapids don’t perform as well as a good quality mid-range or premium tyre. However, Rapid tyres do offer a great in-between offering quality and value for money.
No, as part-worn tyres are not safe and there is no guarantee they won’t fail.