Dale Howard Auto Center

Car AC Repair at Dale Howard Waverly in Waverly, IA

Maintaining your car’s air conditioning system keeps you comfortable and safe on the road during extreme heat. It also helps you avoid overworking your vehicle, which can keep it running smoothly.

Why Car AC Repair is Important

There are several benefits to maintaining your car’s AC, the first of which is comfort. Especially in hot summer temperatures, the need for a cool, comfortable environment inside your car isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. Fixing your AC also helps filter out harmful particles and pollutants like dust, pollen, and smog. When your car’s AC system is failing, it puts pressure on the rest of the car, lowering performance and increasing fuel consumption. The longer you wait to get your AC fixed, the bigger the problem can become, and the more time and money it can cost.

When You Should Get Car AC Repair

You should have your car’s AC regularly serviced at least once a year, preferably around the time warm weather starts. There are several signs to look out for if your AC needs repair. Inside the car, you may notice bad smells, warm or weak airflow, and odd sounds when you turn your AC on. These signs could mean bacteria in the filter, a broken belt, or issues with the condenser. Outside the car, you may notice some fluid leakage–this could be refrigerant, which should be taken care of immediately as leaking refrigerant is chemically hazardous and could cause harm to your engine.

The Car AC Repair Process

Step 1

Our expert service technicians will listen to your concerns and perform a thorough inspection to spot any problems, such as faulty wiring, a broken belt, or a dirty cabin air filter. They may also use a dye to test for refrigerant leaks.

Step 2

Once they’ve identified the problem, they will fix or replace any parts that need it. This could be replacing the cabin air filter, the clutch for the compressor, or the compressor itself, among other things.

Step 3

Before handing your keys back to you, they will recharge the AC unit with new refrigerant, clean the area, and test the AC.

Cost of Car AC Repair

The cost of car AC repair can vary due to factors like the make and model of your car, what the exact problem is, and the parts and labor required to fix the problem. For example, fixing a cabin air filter is fairly cheap and simple, while replacing electrical wires or an entire compressor can be more complicated and costly.

On average, car AC repairs cost between $430 and $520 but can be upwards of $1,000 if a new compressor is required. Dale Howard Waverly regularly runs service specials for our customers, so be sure to check those out to get the best deals on service and parts.

Questions to Ask Your Service Technician

  • How can I maximize my AC’s performance?
  • What warning signs should I look out for?
  • When should I get my AC serviced?

Signs of a Quality Car AC Repair

After getting your AC repaired, you shouldn’t notice any bad smells or weird noises. The airflow should be strong and cold. The right type of refrigerant for your car should be used and there should be no leaks or spills.

Caring for Your Vehicle After Car AC Repair

To keep your car’s AC running at maximum performance for as long as possible, regularly clean and switch out the cabin air filter. Don’t let your car pre-cool. Clean the inside of your car regularly so dust and other debris doesn’t clog the system. Use the AC on the coldest setting with the fan turned to your preference. Lastly, in the extreme heat, park your car in the shade when possible and use windshield covers.

Contact Our Service Department in Waverly, IA

Come to Dale Howard Waverly at 2320 5th Avenue Northwest, Waverly, IA for expert service. You can conveniently book an appointment online or call our service department at 319-352-9000. Our service hours are Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. We look forward to serving you!


Dale Howard Auto Center

Sales 641-648-4691
Service 641-648-4695
Parts 641-648-4694
600 Brooks Rd.
Iowa Falls, IA 50126
Driving Directions
Monday 8:00AM - 6:00PM
Tuesday 8:00AM - 6:00PM
Wednesday 8:00AM - 6:00PM
Thursday 8:00AM - 6:00PM
Friday 8:00AM - 6:00PM
Saturday 8:00AM - 4:00PM
Sunday Closed
Monday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Tuesday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Wednesday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Thursday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Friday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
Monday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Tuesday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Wednesday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Thursday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Friday 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

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