To avoid car A/C breakdowns, follow your vehicle manufactures suggested maintenance schedule for automotive service and have you're A/C system checked at the first sign of trouble. 

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WHAT CAUSES THE A/C TO BLOW HOT AIR

Between the compressor, the A/C clutch, and (most commonly) the refrigerant level, there are several reasons why a car air conditioner can stop blowing cold air:

• Refrigerant loss: Low refrigerant (coolant) is the most common cause of A/C problems.

• Blocked air flow: Anywhere between the compressor, the condenser, and the air vents into your cabin, any blockage to air flow will shut down your A/C system.

• Broken or worn A/C parts: Depending on the vehicle, your A/C system may include a compressor, A/C clutch, condenser, thermal expansion drive, receiver, dryer, orifice tube, evaporator, and blower. Any of these parts, and the lines and connections between them, may need service.

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INDICATORS YOUR A/C SYSTEM MAY HAVE ISSUES

• Your vehicle A/C doesn't cool your cabin as effectively as it used to: If warm air from your vents (or no air at all) is your first sign of A/C trouble, the culprit may be a minor problem, like low coolant or a clogged vent. You could also have a broken fan.

• Your A/C makes unfamiliar sounds: What you hear rattling around in your car's climate control system could also be a minor problem, like debris ingested from outside. It could also be a broken part anywhere in the system. (Remember: any new sound from your vehicle should be checked by a qualified mechanic.)

• Your vehicle cabin smells bad: Mold in your car A/C system - a respiratory health hazard - can generate a funky smell. New odors from your vehicle also need immediate attention.

• Coolant stains under your vehicle: Car A/C coolant has a sweet smell and a texture that people describe as greasy, filmy, or slimy. (Another reminder: any fluid under your car besides water should be checked by a mechanic.)

• Water leaking into your vehicle: A clog in your water line can cause water to back up causing water to leak in areas similar to your floor mats.

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INDICATORS OF A DAMAGED A/C COMPRESSOR

Here are a few things to look for to determine if you're A/C compressor is causing the problem:

• Unusual compressor noise: In the compressor, worn-out bearings or other interior components can cause friction.

• The compressor clutch won't engage: Listen the next time you turn your A/C on. You'll hear the clutch switch moving before your compressor activates.

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COMMON CAUSES OF CAR A/C COMPRESSOR FAILURE

• Refrigerant is too low to maintain air pressure

• Low lubricant

• Blocked suction lines

• Dirty coils

• Electrical problems