Air Conditioning Leak Diagnosis: What You Need to Know
Why Is My Car A/C Not Blowing Cold?
At some point in your vehicle’s life, especially in warmer climates, your air conditioner may stop blowing cold air. When that happens, a professional Air Conditioning system diagnosis becomes essential to identify the problem—and one of the most common culprits is a refrigerant leak.
What Causes an A/C Leak? Refrigerant leaks can occur over time due to:
- Worn or cracked seals between A/C components
- Corroded hoses or fittings
- Compressor or condenser damage
- Physical impact or road debris

While the thought of A/C repairs can bring dollar signs to mind, not all leaks are major. Many are due to a small failed seal, which can be quickly repaired and the system recharged.
How Do Technicians Diagnose an A/C Leak?
Our ASE-certified technicians use professional-grade diagnostic tools to inspect the system, including:
What Causes an A/C Leak? Refrigerant leaks can occur over time due to:
- Refrigerant recovery and vacuum machines to measure pressure
- High- and low-side A/C gauges
- UV dye and flashlight detection
- Electronic leak detectors
- Visual inspections for damage or hissing noises

The technician assesses system pressure and may inject a UV dye to trace the exact source of the leak. Once the leak is located, they’ll recommend appropriate repairs and recharge the system.
Symptoms of an A/C Leak
- Gradual loss of cooling over time
- Warm air blowing from vents
- Noticeable hissing noises from under the hood
- Visible refrigerant or oily residue around A/C components
- Unpleasant smells when A/C is on
Leaks can occur slowly, and most drivers don’t notice until the system stops performing altogether.
Can I Drive with an A/C Leak?
Yes—you can still drive with a discharged A/C system. However, running the system without refrigerant long-term can cause seals to dry out, leading to more extensive and expensive repairs down the road. If caught early, a small leak is much more affordable to repair.
How Common Are A/C Leaks?
It’s very common to need A/C service at some point—especially after 100,000 miles. Many repair shops, like NavAuto1 Group, specialize in automotive A/C diagnostics and repairs because it’s a routine issue for vehicle owners.
What Happens After the Leak Is Found?
- System Evacuation: All refrigerant is safely recovered with a certified machine.
- Component Repair/Replacement: Faulty parts or seals are replaced.
- Leak Verification: The system is vacuum tested to confirm the leak is fixed.
- Recharge: The system is recharged with the correct refrigerant and oil.
- Final Test: Cooling performance and system pressure are rechecked.

NavAuto1 Group’s Recommendations
- Never attempt to recharge your A/C system at home. DIY products may contain sealants or contaminants that damage professional recovery machines and your vehicle.
- Always use certified technicians who are trained to handle refrigerants safely and legally.
- If your vehicle still uses R-12 refrigerant, now is the perfect time to upgrade to R-134a or the newest R-1234yf, as required by law for newer systems.
Important Safety Tips
- Refrigerant is under high pressure and can cause severe chemical burns if handled improperly.
- Improperly venting refrigerant into the atmosphere is illegal and harms the environment.
- Always check under-hood labels to identify refrigerant type or past conversions.
- Never attempt to service an A/C system without proper equipment.
Can You Diagnose an A/C Leak Yourself?
We strongly advise against it. Proper diagnosis and repair require:
- Recovery machines
- Specialized gauges
- Safety training
- EPA certification
A/C repairs are not DIY-friendly due to the health risks and environmental regulations involved.
Need A/C Service in Denver?
Preventative Maintenance, Diagnostic Services and Auto Repairs in Denver, US
Navauto1 Group Auto Repair has all of the resources to meet your current and future needs for car air conditioning services and more.
Car Air Conditioning Service & Repair
Stay cool and comfortable year-round with expert air conditioning service from NavAuto1 Group. Our ASE-certified technicians diagnose and repair A/C systems on all vehicle makes and models, ensuring reliable cabin cooling and defrosting.
Our A/C service includes:
System performance check to evaluate airflow and cooling
Refrigerant recovery and recharge to restore proper levels
Leak detection using UV dye and pressure testing
Inspection of the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and blower motor
Replacement of cabin air filter (if needed)
Electronic diagnostics for modern climate control systems
Whether your A/C is blowing warm air, making noise, or not working at all, we’ll restore it to factory performance — fast.
- Our Work is Guaranteed
- Save Time and Money
- 3 Year Warranty
- Free Shuttle Service
- Experience and Expertise
- Friendly Environment
Contact Info
Phone: (303) 915-0191
Email: info@na1g.com
Opening Hours
Mon – Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Sat – Sun: Close
Service Centre
Denver, CO 80216
Need help deciding? Come on in.
Come let one of our experts talk you through your options. Please note that pricing must be confirmed in store.
(303) 915-0191
NavAuto1 Group.“Denver’s #1 A-to-Z Automotive Repair Center.”





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