A mechanic is pondering how to inform this customer that their A/C is, in fact, fine after complaints of it not being cold enough.
In a TikTok that’s generated over 4,200 views as of this writing, mechanic Josh (@mymechanicsaid) reveals what exactly was wrong with this Cadillac Escalade's A/C and how it was a simple solution.
In the post, Josh says he wishes he were making up this recent diagnostic job he did for a 2024 Cadillac Escalade.
“We are in a 2024 Cadillac Escalade. The customer came in stating that the A/C blows not as cold as it used to,” Josh begins.
Josh emphasizes that the phrasing of “not as cold as it used to be” is an important detail.
“Which is important because if they say it’s blowing warm, that’s an obvious problem and it’s easy to figure out,” he says.
He explains it can be difficult to diagnose when you don’t know the original temperature as a mechanic doing a diagnostic.
“Not as cold as it used to is different ‘cause I don’t know what it used to blow. It should blow cold, but I don’t know what the temperature was,” Josh continues.
The mechanic then goes inside the Escalade to inspect what exactly is going on with this A/C.
“They have it set to 72 degrees—on auto,” he says.
Using a tiny hand on a stick, he points out the auto setting and addresses the problem.
“Now, the problem with this is that when it’s set to auto, it is not going to cool the same way as when you turn it down,” Josh explains.
The mechanic showcases how turning down the A/C manually will impact the car's temperature.
“So, we’re going to turn the temperature all the way down, and then we’re going to mess with the fans,” he adds.
After turning the temperature all the way down, the mechanic places his hand over the A/C vents to test the temperature.
“It’s blowing cold as crap,” he says.
“You have it set to 72; it’s set to auto. It’s gonna automatically cool at the rate that it thinks that it should to keep you comfortable as the driver. Auto means the car is in charge, not you,” Josh elaborates.
Turns out, the issue was the fact that the A/C was set to auto, and 72 degrees isn’t even that cool.
“72, that’s not even A/C. I mean, it’s set to A/C. A/C’s on. Oy vey,” he concludes.
“I Hate Customers”
Some mechanics chimed in on the comments section to express similar frustration with customers.
“Had one just like this come in this week. It never ends,” one said.
“I hate customers man lol,” another added.
“I hate this and see it way too often,” a third shared.
While other viewers provided a deeper explanation of the auto setting being set to 72 degrees.
“This time of year ppl make this call a lot and it is incredibly difficult to explain to avg citizen that setting the ac to 72° in November is going to feel different than the same setting in July. then I use the words ambient temperature and really lose em,” said one.
“72 set to auto. When it’s 50 outside means the car is going to use the heater to warm the car. With the a/c compressor running to dehumidify the air. Whatever the ambient temp is outside, dictates the type of air you get,” another explained.
How to Check Your Car's A/C System On Your Own
Dealing with A/C system issues can be stressful, depending on where you live or the time of the year when it happens.
According to AAA, the following signs can indicate your car's A/C may be having issues:
- Blowing warm air,
- Weak airflow,
- Strange noises and smells,
- Leaking fluids,
- Visible damage, and
- Frequent cycling.
If you experience any of the issues, here are two things that can be done at home before taking your car to a professional.
The first thing that can be done is cleaning and replacing the air filters. Clogged air filters will alter airflow. A simple removal of debris and replacing the filter can solve this issue.
Another quick troubleshooting method is checking the fan function. This involves testing the blower fan at various speeds with the A/C running. During this, it’s best to check the air flow from all vents in the car. Any weak or inconsistent flow from any vent may indicate blower motor issues, ductwork obstruction, or fan speed problems.
If neither of these two things addresses the issue fully, it’s best to seek professional help.
Motor1 has contacted @mymechanicsaid via TikTok direct message and commented on the post. This story will be updated if he replies.
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