Replace Your Car's AC Thermal Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube
Your car or truck's AC system is under extreme pressure and the thermal expansion valve or orifice tube monitors the amount of pressure and the temperature of your A/C system. It calculates the precise amount of refrigerant that can safely go into the evaporator. A failing expansion valve or orifice tube often causes a vehicle's air conditioner to blow hot air.
Replace or Repair
- Expansion Valves: Too much refrigerant causes your evaporator to get too cold whereas too little refrigerant would result in inadequate cooling. The expansion valve is a complex valve that regulates refrigerant flow. This process of metering the refrigerant adjusts the flow according to the temperature of the refrigerant in the evaporator coil. Talk to one of the pro mechanics at Automotive Center of Mandeville, as this part can be replaced on its own and does not require the entire replacement of the AC assembly.
- Orifice Tubes: Unlike the expansion valve, the orifice tube is a simple fixed device with no moving parts. It therefore cannot vary the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator, but rather causes a permanent restriction in the system. However, like the expansion valve the orifice tube regulates refrigerant flow through the system and filters debris which may come through in its screen. Often fixing a "bad orifice tube" requires replacing the entire evaporator assembly.
Contact Us Today!
Got questions? We've got answers! Drop us a line, give us a call, or even stop by. Our team is eager to help you with any auto repair needs you have. Let's get you back on the road safely and swiftly!
What Our Customers Are Saying
I just wanted to share my experience for anyone else who may find themselves in a similar position. I was told by my dealership that I needed a rather immediate brake job done, amongst a laundry list of other things. I reached out to Jason first by calling - he was kind, courteous, thorough, and went out of his way to explain things to me regarding the (many) questions I had. I wanted to have someone else take a look at my brakes to see if I truly needed them replaced. I did wind up bringing my vehicle by, which he had his mechanic look at: turns out, replacing brake pads/rotors/etc was NOT dire, as my dealership led me to believe. Now, Jason & his mechanic *could* have told me, “Yes, you need new brakes and also XYZ 123 right now. Here’s our breakdown of parts & labor plus tax for a full quote, we can get you scheduled in next week.” But they didn’t. They reassured me that they were in good condition for the time being, gave me a general timeline for when I SHOULD anticipate having this repair done, and also warned me of things I should keep eyes/ears out for, should they need attention sooner. These guys are honest and just overall great people. I will be taking my business to Automotive Center of Mandeville from this point on for anything I’m unable to do myself, because it’s exactly this type of business that deserves such recognition and accolades. The biggest, most sincere thank you from a girl just trying to do her best!
I can't say enough good things about Automotive Center of Mandeville. My car has been through it! The first mechanic messed things up, second mechanic was overpriced and rude when I called back about my check engine light. I was honestly exhausted and discouraged, just praying to finally find someone I could trust. That's when I found Jason and Dale at Automotive Center. From the very first interaction, they were so kind, so genuine, and immediately made me feel like I wasn't just another customer. And Brian, their mechanic, is beyond impressive! He really knows his stuff, and it shows. For the first time ever, I actually met the mechanic working on my car, and that level of honesty and connection gave me so much peace of mind. They gave me the best price on diagnosing my car, but even more than that, they gave me respect, trust, and care. My only regret is not finding them sooner. I've finally found my shop, and I'll never go anywhere else.
Car & Truck Care, near Mandeville, LA
These guys are fantastic! My fuel pump went out and they got it in and called me much quicker than i expected. They gave me what i feel was an awesome price for the repair, because i had been quoted much higher through a different mechanic and they didnt try to upsell me stuff i didnt need. The mechanic and service writer walked me through what all was needed and why with an easy to understand explanation. 10/10 do recommend!!
Car & Truck Care, near Mandeville, LA
First time customer, found Jason and his Tech to be extremely customer friendly an explanatory. Gave me an upfront quote and the work was performed in a timely manner. I highly recommend and will return.
Car & Truck Care, near Mandeville, LA
