A/C Problems Demystified
Believe it or not, the A/C system in your vehicle is fairly simple in principle and design. Like your refrigerator, it operates on a cycle of compression and expansion of a gas, known as refrigerant. The compressor turns the gas into a liquid, and as the gas evaporates it provides cooling. Like your refrigerator, its main components are:
- Compressor
- Condenser
- Receiver/dryer
- Thermostatic expansion valve
- Evaporator
- Refrigerant
- Blower
So You Get A Flat Tire...What Now?
Nobody ever looks forward to a flat tire, and nobody ever says "well, that was a really good time" after having one. You can at least minimize the damage to your tire and danger to yourself, though.
Flats vs Blowouts
If you get a blowout, you'll know about it right away. Sometimes the tire can fail dramatically, with a bang as loud as a shotgun going off. Other times, it might just be a loss of air and a sudden change in your car's handling, followed by vibration, noise and a pull to one side. If it's a front tire that fails, your car might be a real handful to drive until you can get to a stop.
In either case, your first job is to pull off the road as quickly (but safely!) as you can. Don't jam on the brakes or make any sudden moves, just get over to the shoulder and the flattest, hardest surface you can find.
Turn on the emergency flashers and set the parking brake. Locate the jack and tire wrench, remove t ...[more]
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