A working air conditioning (AC) system is one of the many comforts that owning a van like your Sprinter provides. Imagine driving in your van on a hot afternoon, now imagine your van’s AC not functioning on such a day when you need it most. A faulty AC is one of the biggest nightmares for a van owner.
Not only does a bad AC make a ride in the van uncomfortable, but it also poses a health risk to drivers with respiratory conditions or other illnesses that are aggravated by heat. Hence, you need to get your Sprinter’s AC repaired as soon as you notice any fault.
What are the Signs that Show that a Sprinter’s AC System is Faulty
The most obvious sign of a bad Air Conditioning (AC) system in your van is the lack of cool air circulating. In this case, you would notice that you start to feel uncomfortable, sweaty, and stuffy, even when the AC is on.
Yet, there are some other indicators in your van to show that you need a quick fix to your van’s AC system.
1. Obvious Leaks
Any kind of leak from your van’s AC system is a sign of a problem. Water or oil could leak out from any part of your van’s AC and it could be due to several reasons. If the compressor, condenser, or evaporator of your AC system has any issue, the compressor oil may begin to leak out.
Also, if you notice any leaks in our van from the vents or your floor mats are soaked, then there could be a problem with your AC’s draining system.
2. Bad Odor
Any bad odor from your AC, whether it’s a moldy smell or a burning smell, indicates that your van’s AC system may be due for a repair or some parts replacement. Not only does this odor show that there is an issue with your van, but it also makes every ride uncomfortable till you find a solution.
3. Unusual Noises
If you begin to notice strange sounds coming from your van’s AC once you turn it on, then this is an obvious sign that there is an issue with the AC system. These noises could be due to a faulty compressor or a loose fan belt, both of which can cause some disturbing noise in the AC.
4. Increased Fuel Consumption
You need enough fuel in your van to run your AC efficiently. However, with a faulty AC, you may need even more fuel. If your van’s AC isn’t working as efficiently as it ought to, you will likely need to run it more and at a higher rate to get enough cool air into the van cabin, this means you will burn more fuel.
Hence, if you notice an increase in your fuel consumption and a decrease in the cooling capacity of your AC, you should have your AC system inspected.
How to Maintain Your Sprinter’s AC in the Future
After identifying the cause of your van’s AC issues and finding a solution, you need to understand the measures to put in place to avoid such problems from reoccurring in the future. These measures are called preventive maintenance actions and they include;
- Always ensure that the air filter is clean and replaced on schedule.
- Avoid overworking your AC system, turn the AC off when it’s not needed.
- Perform regular inspections. Check for obvious signs of damage and leakage.
- Ensure your van is always kept away from direct sunlight or extreme heat.
- Ensure you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for maintenance.
- Pay attention to unusual noises or odors so you can have them checked and fixed in time.
- Only use reliable technicians for your maintenance and repair services.
Where to Go for Your Sprinter’s AC Maintenance and Repair Services in Norcross
If your Sprinter’s air conditioning system is showing 
signs of problems as discussed previously, then the best play is to have an experienced technician check it out. You should take your van to a garage as soon as possible.
Sprinter Gurus is one of the best automobile repair shops in Norcross. We specialize in maintenance and repair services for Sprinter vans starting with regular oil checks and changes, down to AC repairs. Our highly-trained and experienced technicians have been serving Gwinnett County with affordable and reliable care services for years. Hence, we have enough experience to fix any fault in your vehicle.
* Black Mercedes Benz Sprinter image credit goes to: Srdjanns74.