Car AC not cooling? Likely causes and fixes
Updated 22 Oct 2026
In Nigerian heat a working AC matters. Here is what usually goes wrong.
Air is blowing but it isn't cold
- Low gas (refrigerant), almost always because of a leak. Topping it up without fixing the leak only works for a while, so ask for a leak test.
- The compressor isn't engaging, from a faulty compressor, its clutch, or an electrical fault.
- Blocked condenser at the front of the car, so heat can't escape. It's worse in traffic.
Weak airflow
A clogged cabin filter or a failing blower fan. A new cabin filter is a cheap first fix.
Bad smell
Mould in the system or a dirty filter. Ask about cleaning the evaporator and replacing the filter.
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