How long does an AC thermistor last?
Your car's air conditioning system is very complex and consists of several main parts. One of the most important is the AC thermistor. Without it, no air conditioning system can work, whether it's the air conditioning system in your car or your home's climate control system. The thermistor works to control temperature by measuring resistance - as the temperature in your car increases, the thermistor's resistance drops, and this is what keeps your car's AC system cool.
Of course, you don't use the air conditioner every day, unless you live in a very warm climate. However, the life of a thermistor depends not so much on how often it is actuated, but on other types of wear. It is an electrical component, so it is vulnerable to dust and debris, corrosion, and shocks. The life of the thermistor will not depend so much on its age, but on the conditions in which you drive - for example, rough, dusty roads can shorten the life of the thermistor. Generally speaking, you can expect an AC thermistor to last about three years.
Signs that your AC thermistor may need to be replaced include:
- The system blows cool but not cold air
- Cold air blows for a short time
- air conditioner stops blowing air
Thermistor problems can mimic other problems in the AC system, so if you're having problems with your car's AC system, you should have it checked by a qualified mechanic. A professional mechanic can thoroughly analyze your air conditioning system, identify the problem or problems, and replace the AC thermistor if necessary.
