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Frequently asked questions
Fifteen straight answers about diagnosis, refrigerant, pricing, warranty and how a visit to the shop actually works.
Answers
Questions we get every week
If your question is not covered here, call the shop at 248-273-0823 or email services@auto.intercoolventilation.com. Devon answers email within one business day.
Do you need an appointment for diagnosis?
Yes. Diagnosis reserves a bay and a technician, and walk-in diagnostics push other customers back. Cabin filters and odor treatments are usually accepted as walk-ins before 3:00 pm. From June through August expect two to four business days for a diagnostic slot.
How long does an A/C diagnosis take?
Most take 45 to 90 minutes. Intermittent electrical faults and slow leaks sometimes need the vehicle overnight so the system can be pressurized with nitrogen and checked cold in the morning.
My A/C worked last summer and is warm now. Is it just low?
A sealed system does not consume refrigerant. If it is low, it leaked, and the leak will keep leaking. We find the leak first and quote the repair; recharging without repair is a temporary purchase, not a fix.
Can you just add a can of refrigerant for me?
No. Knowingly charging a leaking system vents refrigerant to atmosphere, which is prohibited under EPA Section 609, and it costs you money twice. We will tell you exactly what is leaking and what it costs to fix.
What is the difference between R-134a and R-1234yf?
R-1234yf is the low-global-warming refrigerant used on most vehicles built after roughly 2016. It requires different equipment, different service fittings and costs substantially more per pound, which is why yf recharges are priced higher.
Why does my car smell like a damp basement when the A/C starts?
Biological growth on a wet evaporator. Our $129 ventilation clean treats the evaporator through the drain and filter housing, clears the condensate drain and fits a fresh filter. Sprays sold at parts stores mask it for about a week.
My heat only works when driving, not at idle. What is that?
Usually low coolant, an airlock, a partially restricted heater core, or a weak water pump. It is a $120 diagnosis and the repair is often inexpensive if it is caught before the engine starts overheating.
Do you work on European vehicles?
Yes — BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volkswagen and Volvo are routine here. We have the factory-level scan coverage needed for their climate modules, which generic code readers cannot access.
Do you service RVs, box trucks or work vans?
Vans and light box trucks yes, up to 10,000 lbs GVWR and 9 feet of door height. Class A motorhomes and rooftop RV units we do not take.
Will an A/C repair void my factory warranty?
No. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act a manufacturer cannot void your warranty for having service performed by an independent shop, provided the parts and procedures are equivalent. We record part numbers on every invoice so you have documentation.
Do you offer a warranty on repairs?
24 months or 24,000 miles on parts we supply and the labor to install them, whichever comes first. Full terms are on the warranty page.
Can I supply my own parts?
We generally decline. When a customer-supplied compressor fails, the repeat labor is not covered by anyone and the conversation is unpleasant for both of us. Exceptions are made for discontinued or dealer-only components.
Do you take payment through this website?
No. This site is informational. Payment happens in the shop at pickup. We never email payment links or request card numbers, gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency.
Is there somewhere to wait?
Yes — a small lounge with Wi-Fi, coffee and a desk. There is also a free shuttle within 5 miles on weekdays before 4:00 pm, and an overnight key drop at the north bay door.
Which areas do you serve?
Troy, Royal Oak, Birmingham, Clawson, Madison Heights, Sterling Heights, Warren, Rochester Hills and the surrounding Oakland and Macomb County communities.
Still not sure what is wrong?
Describe the symptom on the phone. Most calls end with a realistic price range before you drive over.