Car Air Conditioning in Brixham

Driving in Brixham means steep climbs out of the harbour and slow-moving holiday traffic in summer. That is when a car's air conditioning is under most pressure, and when a heater that has been fine all winter suddenly reveals a fault.

We are Automaster, a garage at Longcombe Cross near Totnes, and we take on air-con servicing, re-gassing, diagnostics and repairs along with heating-system faults. Brixham drivers, and those from Churston, Paignton and Dartmouth, are welcome to ask for a quote.

Brixham air con not working: what is the cause?

When a system struggles in slow traffic, the compressor and condenser are being asked to work hard without much airflow over them. A condenser clogged with grime, a failing compressor or a fan that is not switching on can all show up this way.

Gradual loss of refrigerant is just as common. It leaves the air feeling cool rather than cold, and the problem tends to be worst on hot days when you need the system most.

• Cold on the move, warm when stationary
• Compressor clutch clicking on and off
• Water on the carpet or musty smells

Is a re-gas enough, or do you need a leak check?

Refilling the gas is only half the story. If a hose, joint or seal is leaking, the new refrigerant will escape too, so a re-gas on a leaking system will not last. We check for leaks so you know whether to expect a lasting result.

Some leaks are small and slow, others are obvious. What we recommend depends on the vehicle and what the test shows, and we explain it in plain terms before you decide.

My heater is lukewarm after a Brixham hill climb

Hills show up heating faults because the engine works harder and coolant temperature moves around. A thermostat stuck open keeps the engine too cool for good heat, low coolant leaves the heater matrix starved, and a blocked matrix gives weak warmth even with the right level.

A blower that works only on some speeds usually points to the resistor or motor. If the temperature gauge ever rises towards red, pull over safely and stop driving rather than pressing on.

Do you cover Brixham, and where do I bring the car?

Yes, we welcome drivers from Brixham. Drivers from the town bring their cars to Longcombe Cross near Totnes for servicing and repairs.

When you ask for a quote, tell us the car, the symptoms and what you have noticed, so we can say what the visit is likely to involve.

Keeping a seaside car's climate system healthy

Use the air con regularly, even in cooler months, so the seals stay lubricated. Switching it on for a few minutes on a dry day also helps clear damp that causes smells.

Replace the pollen filter when due, keep the front grille area clear of debris, and do not ignore noises from under the bonnet. Early attention is usually simpler than waiting for a full failure.