Drivers can ‘bypass car’s computer’ for freezing cold AC this summer – mechanic’s trick can be done in 5 mins
A MECHANIC is unveiling a trade secret that can save drivers thousands of dollars on an old vehicle’s AC repairs.
In a YouTube video, the technician fixed a decade-old Honda Accord’s AC unit that hadn’t been running in three years.
2
2
Mechanic Scotty Kilmer (@scottykilmer) demonstrated the money-saving solution in a June 2021 YouTube video.
In the caption, Kilmer called the fix a “five minute life hack.”
However, the mechanic spent more than five minutes in the video showing how to implement the fix.
Kilmer began by diagnosing the Accord’s computer issues.
Despite previous repair attempts by other mechanics, the car’s AC system still failed to produce cold air.
Kilmer found that the driver could operate the vehicle’s fan speed, but the AC button on the dash wouldn’t light up when he pushed it.
The in-motion fans indicate that the car’s fuses were working properly.
“If the fan blows on and off, the unit’s getting power,” he said.
Rather than delving into an expensive and time-consuming effort to diagnose and fix the computer module, Kilmer opted for a simpler solution.
His fix bypassed the faulty control unit altogether.
Veteran mechanic slams CyberTruck design after finally getting his hands on one & jokes ‘I don’t know how this is legal’
Kilmer connected a jumper wire from the positive battery terminal directly to the compressor power wire.
As he attached the wires, small sparks flew from the electric connection.
This wiring maneuver got the compressor running, and soon, cold air began to blow inside the car.
Kilmer also installed a toggle switch beneath the steering wheel to control the compressor.
Expert advice on prepping your car for summer
Dustin Piggot, the Service Manager at a Subaru Dealership with years of technincal experience, told The U.S. Sun in an exclusive interview which items drivers should have checked before temperatures rise:
- Have a multi-point inspection performed. A paid inspection will prompt a technician to check vital systems like braking, power steering, and front and rear suspension for any leaks or malfunctions. They will also test the condition of the battery and check vital fluid levels and conditions.
- Cooling system. Before things heat up, drivers must have their cooling system inspected for proper coolant levels and condition, have radiator hoses evaluated, and have the radiator checked.
- Have your A/C system checked. If freon is low and needs charging or parts need to be replaced, it’s essential to address the issue before temperatures rise.
- Make sure your tires are appropriate for warmer weather. If you live in a climate that necessitates a dedicated winter tire, swap them with all-season or summer tires if possible to extend the life of the winter tire. Winter tires are softer and will wear out much quicker in warmer weather.
- Look at tread depth. Tires with low tread depth will make it more difficult to stop your car if you need to avoid an accident.
- Give your car some TLC. Before it gets too hot, Piggott says it’s important to give your car a good cleaning to wash away winter grime and dirt and treat your paint to a nice coat of wax to protect it from harsh UV rays and high heat. Many dealerships like his offer detailing and washing services.
Read more here.
Several commenters pointed out the video as less self-instructional, and more as a showcase of Kilmer’s skills.
“There’s no way your average local or chain garage or dealer would EVER make a repair like that,” one commenter praised.
“If you find a mechanic like Scotty, hang onto him for dear life. Bravo sir. Very impressive.”
Kilmer has offered car owners several summer driving tips to ensure their AC runs well while temperatures rise.
The mechanic offered a simple step inside the dash that will ease the strain on an engine.
He also advised drivers to spend an extra $25 to avoid thousands in AC repairs.
link
