Motoring expert warns drivers against dangerous TikTok hack to fix your AC 

A motoring expert has warned drivers against a viral TikTok hack that could result in ‘significant damage’ to both the car and its owner. 

With the warmer temperatures setting in this weekend and many struggling during the cost-of-living squeeze, social media posts recommending how to fix a car’s broken air conditioning system have become very popular. 

However, Graham Conway, managing director at Select Car Leasing said that trying to repair your air-con can be disastrous and lead to poisoning and painful freeze burns. 

It comes after a TikToker posted a video, now been viewed more than 250,000 times, which shows users how to repair a vehicle’s air-con using a recharge. 

The creator @fixd described the kits as ‘easy to use’ and said they only cost between $20 to $50, however this cost-cutting method could end badly.

Graham told the Sun: ‘Absolutely DON’T try it. Without talking to an expert first, you have no idea what the problem with your AC is in the first place.’

And, many users have also disagreed with the method. 

One commented: ‘This is only good for a temp fix. Go to a mechanic to have them properly charge your AC with the proper refrigerant machine.’

Another said: ‘But refrigerant is measured in weight… not psi this can damage your system if done improperly.’ 

One person warned: ‘You forget to tell people to adjust for outside temperature.’ 

Graham continued: ‘When using a DIY canister to add more refrigerant, as shown in the TikTok video, you can’t be sure how much is remaining in the system. This can lead to overcharging the system, resulting in significant damage.’

Instead, he advised finding a trusted garage and seeking out their help first, adding that while this may cost you initially, you may end up saving money in the long run.  

He said: ‘Not only that but specialists also have a better idea of how to check for leaks and other problems associated with air-con systems and there are safety factors to be considered too.

‘The refrigerant used in AC units (freon) can be really dangerous in a confined space and can lead to poisoning, painful freeze burns if it comes in contact with your skin or much more significant injuries.

‘We wouldn’t advise attempting to do the job yourself and instead, leave it to the experts who have the experience and knowledge to deal with this type of job.’ 

To avoid a costly repair or harming yourself, experts suggest finding a trusted motorist to replace you air-con

Despite warnings from experts, there have been several other videos posted on the app by users taking it upon themselves to recharge the car’s air-conditioning.  

User @thelubeman, showed his 440,000 plus followers the same method, and rational users of the app were quick to comment against the method. 

One said: ‘Only prolonging the problem. The ac is a closed syste, so if it is running warm that means there is a leak or a problem somewhere.’

Another agreed: ‘Don’t do this, will mess up you ac system!’