HESCO Automotive & Performance Center Blog
When the weather heats up, a working air conditioning system is essential for comfort on the road. But like any part of your vehicle, the AC system can develop problems over time. If your car’s AC isn’t performing the way it used to, it’s best to get it inspected. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert auto AC repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are four common signs of car AC trouble. Weak or Warm Airflow One of the clearest signs of AC trouble is when the air coming from your vents is weak or not cold enough. If you’re turning the AC all the way up but still sweating, there could be a problem with the compressor or blower motor. Inconsistent airflow could also be caused by a clogged cabin air filter. The mechanic can quickly diagnose the issue and restore your AC’s cooling power. Strange Noises When AC Is On Your car’s AC system should run quietly. If you hear rattling, grinding, or squealing noises when the AC is turned on, there may be a mechanical issue. These sounds could indicate a failing compressor or a loose belt. Ignoring unusual noises can lead to further damage and more expensive repairs down the road, so it’s best to have the system inspected right away. Unpleasant Odors from Vents If your AC vents start emitting a musty or foul smell, mold or mildew may be growing inside the system. This usually happens when moisture builds up in the evaporator or air ducts. Breathing in mold spores can cause allergic reactions and make your car an uncomfortable place to be. A professional cleaning and inspection can eliminate odors and improve the air quality in your cabin. AC Turns On and Off Intermittently If your air conditioning cuts in and out or only works sporadically, it could be due to an electrical issue or a failing compressor clutch. This kind of erratic behavior often points to a deeper issue that needs professional attention. Getting it checked early can help prevent complete system failure and restore consistent comfort while you drive. Car AC Repair in Birmingham, AL When you need auto repair in Birmingham and the surrounding area, contact HESCO Automotive & Performance Center at (205) 526-3796. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
Your car’s cooling system plays a critical role in keeping the engine from overheating. Without it, your engine could quickly reach dangerously high temperatures, leading to major damage and expensive repairs. Recognizing early warning signs of cooling system trouble can help you avoid more serious problems. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are four signs of a cooling system problem. Rising Engine Temperature One of the first and most obvious signs of cooling system trouble is a rising engine temperature. If you notice that your temperature gauge is climbing higher than normal or reaching the red zone, it’s a strong indication that your cooling system isn’t doing its job. An overheating engine can quickly cause severe internal damage, so it’s important to pull over safely and address the problem right away. Coolant Puddling Below Vehicle Coolant leaks are a clear sign that your cooling system has a problem. You might spot a bright green, orange, or pink fluid (your coolant might be a different color) under your car after it has been parked. Coolant leaks can arise due to issues like a damaged radiator, cracked hoses, or a worn-out water pump. If your coolant level drops too low, your engine won’t be able to stay at a safe temperature, leading to overheating and potentially catastrophic engine damage. Visible Steam or Strange Smells If you notice steam coming from under your hood, especially after the engine has been running for a while, it's a clear warning that your engine is overheating. You might also detect a sweet, syrupy smell, which often comes from leaking coolant. These signs point to a cooling system failure that needs immediate attention to prevent further engine damage. Low Coolant Levels If you find yourself frequently needing to top off your coolant, even when you don't see obvious leaks, it’s a sign that something is wrong within the system. Sometimes small leaks are hidden, or the coolant could be leaking internally into the engine. Constantly low coolant levels should never be ignored because they point to a deeper issue that needs professional diagnosis and repair. Cooling System Repair in Birmingham, AL When you need auto repair in Birmingham and the surrounding area, contact HESCO Automotive & Performance Center at (205) 526-3796. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
Your vehicle’s shocks are critical components of the suspension system, designed to keep your ride smooth, stable, and safe. Shocks help absorb the impact from the road, control the movement of your suspension, and maintain proper tire contact with the ground. Over time, shocks wear out and lose their ability to perform effectively, which can lead to a rougher ride. Knowing the signs of worn shocks can help you address the problem early and maintain a comfortable experience. At HESCO Automotive & Performance Center, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Birmingham, AL area. Here are four warning signs that your shocks may need to be replaced. Excessive Bouncing After Hitting Bumps If your car continues to bounce after driving over a bump or pothole, it’s a strong indication that the shocks are no longer doing their job. Worn shocks struggle to control suspension movement, which results in a bouncier, less stable ride. This kind of repeated motion after impact means your vehicle isn't settling as it should, making handling more difficult and uncomfortable. Nose Diving During Braking When shocks start to fail, they can no longer keep the vehicle level during sudden braking. You may notice the front of your car dipping downward, or "nosediving," when you apply the brakes. This not only affects your vehicle’s balance, but can also increase your stopping distance, creating a dangerous situation during emergency braking scenarios. Leaking Fluid on the Shocks Shock absorbers are filled with hydraulic fluid that helps them dampen motion. If you see oily or greasy residue on the outside of the shock bodies, it could mean the seals have failed and fluid is leaking out. A loss of hydraulic fluid means the shocks can’t function properly, and replacement will likely be necessary. Uneven Tire Wear If you’ve noticed that your tires are wearing unevenly or more quickly than usual, your shocks could be part of the problem. Worn shocks can lead to inconsistent contact with the road surface. This irregular motion can cause patches of tires to wear down more rapidly, reducing tire life and compromising traction. Suspension Repair in Birmingham, AL When you need auto repair in Birmingham and the surrounding area, contact HESCO Automotive & Performance Center at (205) 526-3796. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!
