How can I make my Explorer air conditioner colder?

Park in the shade whenever you can, and use a reflective sunshade in the windshield when you’re parked. If you’re the only one in the car, close all the vents except the ones that point toward you. Give the system the final boost it needs with an A/C performance check and recharge from Firestone Complete Auto Care.

Why is my Explorer A/C blowing hot air?

An A/C blowing hot air has several possible root causes. There could be an issue with your compressor clutch, a blown fuse, a leak, or a clog in the expansion valve.

How does my A/C system get a leak?

To put it simply, age and moisture are some of the main causes of leaks in your A/C. Over time, rubber gaskets and seals can wear out, which pushes much-needed refrigerant out of your Explorer’s A/C system — and lets outside moisture get in, which can take a toll on internal A/C components.

Does the A/C in my Explorer use gas?

Your Explorer’s A/C uses some power from the engine to run. So, while your air conditioning system may not directly use gasoline as a fuel source, using the A/C can indirectly affect your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

What does it mean if the A/C in my Explorer smells like vinegar?

If a vinegar-like odor comes from your A/C, bacteria growth could be the culprit. Moisture accumulation in the air conditioning system of your Explorer creates a breeding environment for microorganisms.

Why does my Explorer’s A/C only work when the car is moving?

If your A/C only works when the vehicle is moving, there could be a problem with part of your Explorer’s A/C or electrical system. Potential issues include low coolant or a faulty cooling fan.

Where can I get my Explorer’s A/C repaired?

Firestone Complete Auto Care has decades of experience inspecting and repairing Explorer air conditioning systems. Schedule an A/C repair appointment at one of our locations near you today.

Nearest A/C Repair for Your 1997 Ford Explorer

Get Started

Schedule A/C Service for Your Ford Explorer

When you’ve got car A/C problems, don’t sweat it. At Firestone Complete Auto Care, our technicians are qualified to diagnose issues and repair your 1997 Ford Explorer A/C system. Beat the heat and come in today for a refreshingly easy A/C performance check.

Schedule an Appointment

A/C Repair Service for Your Ford Explorer

There’s nothing worse than cranking your car air conditioner on a hot day — and discovering it’s broken. Is that a hot stove? Nope, just your steering wheel. Sweat soaks the driver's seat. “Who can fix my Ford Explorer A/C?” you wonder, as the sun beats through the windshield. Firestone Complete Auto Care — that’s who! We’ve got experience with Ford vehicles, and our qualified technicians can diagnose and service the A/C system in your 1997 Ford. Steer your Ford Explorer to your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care

During this initial A/C performance check, we’ll look at the state of your 1997 Ford Explorer’s A/C system to determine whether repair work is needed. This check will include an examination of system pressure, a visual inspection, and a leak test. If we think there might be a leak, we'll run a special U/V dye through the system or use a "sniffer." A “sniffer” isn’t a technician with a good nose! It’s a machine that’s used on different parts of your Ford Explorer A/C system to detect any refrigerant fumes that might be leaking out from the system. If your system has a leak, we can get it fixed.

A/C Recharge for Ford Explorer

While your 1997 Ford Explorer’s air conditioner is being serviced, we’ll also do an A/C evacuation and recharge. During this process, a technician will remove the old refrigerant from the A/C system. Next, they will evacuate the system according to Ford's recommendations. To finish, we’ll add new refrigerant to recharge the A/C system, and once we’ve done a final test on the system ourselves, you’re all set. Our technicians know how to keep your A/C in tip-top shape with 1997 Ford Explorer A/C recharges.

Common Ford Explorer A/C Problems

You may think warm air is the only potential Ford Explorer A/C problem you’ll have, but you may notice other issues, too. Another common A/C problem is weak airflow, which could mean you have a compromised seal, mildew or mold buildup, a loose or damaged hose, or a ventilation fan that needs to be replaced. If your A/C system blows cold air first but then it turns warm, this may be due to a clogged expansion valve, faulty compressor clutch, blown fuse, or leak. And smelly A/C in a 1997 Ford Explorer? You could have a moldy evaporator case, or you may simply need a new cabin air filter installed. Our trained technicians will do what they can to solve your A/C problems. So, chill out. We're here to help you get the blast back in your Explorer’s A/C!

Frequently Asked Questions for 1997 Ford Explorer A/C Systems

How can I make my Explorer air conditioner colder? Park in the shade whenever you can, and use a reflective sunshade in the windshield when you’re parked. If you’re the only one in the car, close all the vents except the ones that point toward you. Give the system the final boost it needs with an A/C performance check and recharge from Firestone Complete Auto Care.
Why is my Explorer A/C blowing hot air? An A/C blowing hot air has several possible root causes. There could be an issue with your compressor clutch, a blown fuse, a leak, or a clog in the expansion valve.
How does my A/C system get a leak? To put it simply, age and moisture are some of the main causes of leaks in your A/C. Over time, rubber gaskets and seals can wear out, which pushes much-needed refrigerant out of your Explorer’s A/C system — and lets outside moisture get in, which can take a toll on internal A/C components.
Does the A/C in my Explorer use gas? Your Explorer’s A/C uses some power from the engine to run. So, while your air conditioning system may not directly use gasoline as a fuel source, using the A/C can indirectly affect your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
What does it mean if the A/C in my Explorer smells like vinegar? If a vinegar-like odor comes from your A/C, bacteria growth could be the culprit. Moisture accumulation in the air conditioning system of your Explorer creates a breeding environment for microorganisms.
Why does my Explorer’s A/C only work when the car is moving? If your A/C only works when the vehicle is moving, there could be a problem with part of your Explorer’s A/C or electrical system. Potential issues include low coolant or a faulty cooling fan.
Where can I get my Explorer’s A/C repaired? Firestone Complete Auto Care has decades of experience inspecting and repairing Explorer air conditioning systems. Schedule an A/C repair appointment at one of our locations near you today.