Is Your Car AC Not Working? Visit Your Toyota Dealer Today

July 14, 2023 · 3 min read

A car's air conditioning system working near Noblesville, Indianapolis

We all love warm weather, but we also need a trusty car AC when the day gets just too hot. When your car AC is not working, it can make a pleasant drive feel almost unbearable. Fortunately, your Toyota dealer is here to help. If you have an AC problem, our expert technicians can repair it for you. These are some potential AC issues.

Water on the Floor

A wet passenger carpet on a warm, sunny day is a sign that something is wrong. The cause of this strange problem is water generated by the cooling process overflowing in the cabin. The evaporator coil holds chilled refrigerant from the compressor. As the AC fan blows over the air over the coil, it chills the air and removes humidity. The humidity is converted into water, which collects in the evaporator heater box.

The evaporator heater box has a drain pipe that drains the water out of your car and onto the ground. In time, the drain pipe can become blocked by mold or bacteria. If water can't escape your car, the evaporator heater box will slowly fill up and overflow. The heater box is positioned in front of the passenger cabin section, and overflowing water will leak onto the carpet. We can clean or replace the drain pipe to fix this problem.

Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerant is the gas that enables the AC to work effectively and chill the air. It changes between gaseous and liquid states during the chilling process. Over time, AC components can become worn or damaged, and this can cause a leak in the AC system. Refrigerant is pressurized in both its gaseous and liquid states, and this means a tiny hole anywhere in the system can cause a rapid loss of refrigerant.

Unlike most other potential car leaks, a refrigerant leak is impossible to see with the naked eye. Refrigerant is odorless, colorless, and evaporates when in contact with the air. We can trace a leak in your AC system by feeding a UV dye into the compressor. We then use a UV monitor to trace the refrigerant's passage through the AC. Once we spot the leak, we can permanently seal the hole to fix the problem.

Noisy AC

A smoothly functioning AC makes almost no sound. If you listen very carefully, you can hear the quiet click of the compressor clutch switching on and off, and you'll hear the sound of the blower motor. If these sounds are replaced by rustling, rattling, or grinding noises, it's time to visit us for an AC checkup.

Rustling or rattling noises could be made by dirt, leaves, or other debris rattling around the AC ducts. Grinding noises, in contrast, could be caused by a damaged AC bearing. We'll check the ducts and your AC system and fix the problem.

If your AC isn't working correctly, call our service department at Ed Martin Toyota.

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A person getting into their 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid near Noblesville, Indiana

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Next-Gen Hybrids: The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's Innovations

Eco-friendly driving continues to grow in popularity, with more and more drivers switching to hybrid vehicles. The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a great option for large families looking to lead a more sustainable life. Take an in-depth look at the new Highlander Hybrid in this complete guide. more Mechanical Elements The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is equipped with a hybrid powertrain 2.5L L4HV Double Overhead Cam 16-valve D-45 injection engine with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intake controlled by an electric motor. This combination provides 243 net horsepower with 186 horsepower from the combustion engine. The hybrid powertrain engine delivers 175 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. The Highlander has an electronic on-demand AWD system. This helps your SUV take on all kinds of terrain by automatically supplying power to the rear wheels for enhanced traction when needed. Exterior Structure The new Highlander Hybrid has High Solar-Energy Absorbing glass on the front side windows to block the sun's harsh rays, protecting your skin and interior elements while keeping your cabin cooler. Heated power outside mirrors prevent steam from blocking your view while driving while the height-adjustable power liftgate with jam protection makes loading cargo fast, efficient, and safe. Interior Features There's seating for eight passengers inside the 2024 Highlander Hybrid, with 60/40 split fold-slat second- and third-row seats. The 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat offers comfort and support while the 14 cop holders give everyone a spot for their beverages. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid has three-zone automatic climate control with an air filter and a separate second-row control panel. Individual temperature settings for the driver, front passenger, and rear-seat passengers allow everyone in the cabin to feel comfortable at all times. Tech Enhancements The Toyota Audio Multimedia system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth wireless technology, and a 3-month trial to SiriusXM radio. Use these features for hands-free phone calls, audio streaming, GPS navigation, and more! When you purchase a 2024 Toyota Highlander, you'll get a 30-day 3GB trial subscription to Wi-Fi Connect. Powered by AT&T, this function provides a stable internet connection for all of your compatible devices. Safety Functions The new Highlander Hybrid comes with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a safety package that uses assistive driving to reduce the risk of collisions and other accidents. This includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Can the Toyota Highlander help you lead a more eco-conscious lifestyle? Come take it for a test drive and see how you like it! Visit Ed Martin Toyota in Noblesville, IN to explore all of our new Toyota models.1

A red 2024 GR-Supra parked in front of a grey concrete wall, photographed from the side near Noblesville, IN

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6 Benefits of Getting OEM Parts for Your Toyota

If you wish to buy a spare part for your vehicle, you have two options: aftermarket parts or Original Equipment Manufacturer(OEM) products. There are several reasons why your Toyota dealer will recommend OEM parts. more 1. Guaranteed Quality Genuine Toyota parts are carefully made using high-quality materials, which enhance their durability and allow them to perform to Toyota's standards. On the other hand, aftermarket parts are made by multiple manufacturers with cheap materials to fit a wide variety of vehicle brands, meaning there is no guarantee that the one you'll buy will be a perfect match for your vehicle. 2. Warranty Protection Most Toyota automobiles come with warranties that cover various components. When you use genuine products for repairs or maintenance, you can maintain the validity of your warranty. Using genetic parts can sometimes void the warranty if they cause damage or do not meet the manufacturer's standards. 3. Performance OEM products help support top-notch performance as they are designed to work in harmony with other vehicle components. They help retain your car's original features and capabilities. Aftermarket parts are often not as durable as original parts, potentially causing premature failure and damage to other parts, negatively impacting the vehicle's overall performance. 4. Compatibility Original parts are compatible with your specific model as they're made by the manufacturers of your vehicle. The dimensions and specifications are precisely the same. The only difference is that they're assigned as replacements during production instead of being used as part of another vehicle. This is particularly vital for replacing parts associated with major vehicle systems, like the engine and transmission. Generic parts may be ill-fitting enough to cause more costly repairs in the future. 5. Safety Toyota vehicles prioritize safety, and to help ensure you and your passengers travel safely, all vehicle parts must be in peak working condition. Genuine parts are designed and tested by the vehicle's original manufacturers to meet stringent safety standards. This ensures optimal performance under various conditions, contributing to the vehicle's overall safety on the road. Generic parts may not offer the same level of performance and may even negatively impact your car's efficiency. 6. Resale Value If you decide to sell or trade in your Toyota in the future, using genuine parts increases its resale value. Cars maintained with original parts often appeal to prospective buyers as they guarantee the vehicle's overall longevity. The best place to order genuine parts is at your dealership. For all your automotive needs, rely on experts with in-depth knowledge of your Toyota. Contact Ed Martin Toyota in Noblesville, IN, to order genuine Toyota parts. We also do expert installations and auto repairs at affordable rates. We'll ensure your vehicle is back on the road sooner than you can imagine.

An auto inspection being performed at a service center near Noblesville, Toyota

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5 Tips for Maintaining Your Toyota

Car maintenance does not have to be time-consuming or expensive. Investing a little time and effort in small maintenance tasks can save you money and time in the long run. As your Toyota dealer, we want you to get the most out of your car. That's why we've compiled a few easy Toyota maintenance tips that will keep your car running and looking its best. more Set Reminders for Toyota Maintenance Your smartphone can be a useful tool when it comes to car maintenance. With the ability to set reminders and notifications, you can easily stay on top of your car's maintenance needs. Refer to the owner's manual to determine how much time should elapse between maintenance visits for oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements. High-Quality Fuel When it comes to choosing fuel for your vehicle, saving a few pennies doesn't pay off in the long run. Be sure to use the grade of fuel recommended by the manufacturer in your owner's manual. Using a fuel with a lower octane than your car needs can cause reduced engine performance and/or long-term damage to the emissions system. Filling Up Protects Your Fuel Pump Occasionally forgetting to refuel on time is just part of being human. However, allowing the gas to run low repeatedly can have consequences, particularly for the car's fuel pump. A fuel pump relies on gasoline to lubricate and cool its internal components. If the fuel level is consistently low, the pump can be exposed to air, leading to overheating and possible damage. To ensure the longevity of your fuel system, make a habit of keeping the gas tank adequately filled. Tire Pressure Checks Your tires have a big role to play in the overall performance and safety of your vehicle. That is why tire pressure should be monitored at least once a month. The proper tire should be printed on a sticker inside the driver's door, or in your owner's manual. It's best to check tire pressure at least 3 hours after the vehicle was driven. Remember, hot weather makes rubber swell, so during the summer, try to check tire pressure early in the morning. Routine Maintenance at Your Toyota Dealer While there are many easy maintenance tips you can do yourself, they are no substitute for having routine maintenance done here at the dealership. Our highly-trained mechanics have in-depth expertise when it comes to Toyota's requirements and maintenance standards. They also have access to the most modern diagnostic tools and equipment, ensuring your vehicle gets the best care. When it comes to car maintenance, consistency is key. Regularly checking and maintaining essential components can help prevent major issues in the future. Stop by or contact us today at Ed Martin Toyota in Noblesville, IN to schedule routine maintenance.