
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 Ken's Auto Center, 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.

OUR REVIEWS


Relynn Owens, 04/29/2025Cindy and Todd make Ken's Auto Center experience wonderful. They worked with us and got us what we needed, and within our budget! Highly recommend for everyone in San Diego

Get free Coupons
Take advantage of these great offers!
Active Military & Veterans
15% OFF
Aprils Promotion
Spring into Savings at Kens Auto Center, Free Brake Inspections. If you need brakes Receive $20 off and Get a Prepaid Visa Rebate up to $40 on Premium Brake Packages. This is Per Axle!
Offer Valid April 1st through April 30th, 2025 Only. Not Valid with OEM, Some Euro's and Non Standard Brakes, Make an Appointment Online for your brake inspection.