It’s one of the most common questions mechanics get, especially during the hot South Florida months: “I’m booking a full service for my truck. Does that include the AC?”
It’s a great question, and the answer is important for keeping your vehicle (or your entire fleet) running efficiently.
The short, direct answer is: No, a standard “full service” does not typically include a specific air conditioning service.
They are almost always two separate jobs. Here’s a simple breakdown of why.
What Is a “Full Service”?
Think of a “full service” as a comprehensive preventive maintenance check-up. Its main goal is to keep your engine and vehicle components healthy and to prevent future breakdowns.
A typical full service focuses on the parts and fluids that wear out with regular use. This includes:
- Engine Oil and Filter Change: The most critical part of the service.
- Fluid Level Checks & Top-Ups: This includes coolant (antifreeze), brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
- Full Brake Inspection: Checking the pads, rotors, and brake lines for wear.
- Tire Check: Inspecting tread depth, tire pressure, and looking for damage.
- Filter Inspections: Checking the engine air filter (for the engine) and the cabin air filter (for air quality inside the car).
- General Safety Check: Inspecting lights, wipers, battery, and suspension components.
While the service does check the cabin air filter, which affects your AC’s airflow, it does not service the actual cooling system itself.
Why Is Air Conditioning Service Separate?
Your vehicle’s air conditioning is a complex, sealed system. It’s not something you “top-up” like windshield washer fluid. It requires specialized equipment and certified technicians to handle properly.
An AC service is a diagnostic and repair service, not a standard maintenance item.
A specialized AC service involves:
- Pressure Testing: A technician hooks up special gauges to check the high- and low-pressure sides of the AC system. This shows if the system is low on refrigerant.
- Leak Detection: If the pressure is low, the system has a leak. A technician will use UV dye or an electronic “sniffer” to find the source of the leak (which could be a hose, seal, or the condenser).
- Refrigerant “Recharge”: If a leak is fixed (or if the system has just seeped refrigerant slowly over many years), the mechanic will use a special machine to “evacuate” the old refrigerant and moisture, then “recharge” it with the precise, manufacturer-specified amount of new refrigerant and lubricant.
- Component Check: The technician will also check that the AC compressor, clutch, and condenser fan are all working correctly.
A “full service” just doesn’t include the time or specialized tools needed for this process.
When Do You Need an AC Service?
Your AC system will usually tell you when it needs help. You should book a dedicated AC check if you notice:
- Air isn’t cold: The most obvious sign.
- Weak airflow: This could just be a clogged cabin filter, but it’s worth checking.
- Strange noises: A grinding or squealing sound when you turn on the AC can mean the compressor is failing.
- Musty smells: This can indicate mold or mildew in the evaporator core or vents.
Keep Your Fleet Cool with Oil Can Man
In the Florida heat, a working AC isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity, especially for commercial fleets. You can’t have drivers overheating or D.O.T. compliance issues because of a foggy windshield.
While a full service keeps your engine running, a dedicated AC service keeps your drivers safe and comfortable.
At Oil Can Man, we handle both. We can manage your regular preventive maintenance and also provide expert, on-site air conditioning service for your cars, vans, and heavy-duty trucks. Don’t wait for the heat to become a problem.
Contact us today to schedule your fleet’s maintenance or AC repairs.
