Whether your air conditioning isn't blowing cold air, has stopped working completely or simply needs servicing, Bulldog Motors can help. We provide professional air conditioning servicing, leak detection, repairs and regassing to keep your vehicle comfortable all year round.
For older vehicles (typically pre-2017). Includes a full system vacuum and fresh refrigerant gas. This typically takes 60 mins to complete.
For newer vehicles (typically post-2017). Includes a full system vacuum and fresh environmentally friendly refrigerant gas. This typically takes 60 mins to complete.
A disinfecting fog treatment that removes harmful bacteria, mold, and unpleasant odors from your A/C system and vents. This typically takes 15 mins to complete.
If your vehicle's air conditioning system has no refrigerant present, or you've recently had a new component fitted, a leak test is required before recharging the system.
Most vehicles manufactured before 2017 use R134a refrigerant, often referred to as the "old gas", while newer vehicles typically use R1234yf, known as the "new gas". R1234yf was introduced as a more environmentally friendly alternative with a significantly lower impact on global warming. The two refrigerants are not interchangeable and require different equipment and procedures to service correctly. If you're unsure which refrigerant your vehicle uses, simply check the label under the bonnet or contact us and we'll be happy to help.
The easiest way to identify which refrigerant your vehicle uses is to check the information label under the bonnet. This label is usually located near the front of the engine bay and will clearly state either R134a or R1234yf. If you're unable to find the label or are unsure which refrigerant your vehicle requires, don't worry – we're happy to help identify it for you.
At Bulldog Motors, we have dedicated equipment for both R134a and R1234yf systems, allowing us to service your air conditioning system correctly and safely. Whether your vehicle requires a routine recharge, performance check or leak investigation, we have the tools and expertise to keep your air conditioning operating efficiently throughout the year.
If your vehicle arrives with no refrigerant, it's a strong indicator that your AC system has a leak. Under normal conditions, your AC system will lose a small amount of refrigerant (up to 40g per year for a single system or 60g per year for a dual system) through the rubber hoses and seals. If the system isn't used for long periods, the o rings can shrink and allow gas to escape. This means they will need to be changed before charging the system, which is why it's important to regularly use your AC.
By law, we cannot refill a system that we suspect is leaking, as releasing refrigerant into the environment is harmful and illegal.
To identify the source of the leak, we use safe and effective diagnostic methods:
Inert Gas Pressure Testing We introduce an inert gas (such as nitrogen) into the system at high pressure, which helps us pinpoint leaks without damaging the components or harming the environment. If there is a leak, the gas will escape, allowing us to detect the fault.
UV Dye Inspection. Most AC services include UV dye mixed with refrigerant. The refrigerant carries the dye through the system, making leaks visible under UV light. However, if all the refrigerant has leaked out, UV dye testing will no longer work, as there is no refrigerant left to circulate the dye.
Electronic Leak Detector. We use specialised electronic sensors that can detect even the smallest refrigerant leaks, helping us locate hidden issues in the system.
What Happens Next? If we identify a minor leak, we can discuss repair options with you, such as replacing damaged seals or pipes. If the leak is major, components like the condenser, evaporator, or compressor may require replacement.
Unlike many garages that simply recharge the system, we take the time to diagnose the cause of any issues. Using specialist leak detection equipment, we can accurately identify faults and recommend the most cost-effective repair, helping to avoid repeat visits and unnecessary regassing. Modern refrigerants can have a significant environmental impact if released into the atmosphere. Our specialist equipment allows us to safely recover refrigerant, test systems for leaks and carry out repairs responsibly, helping to protect both your vehicle and the environment.
Most manufacturers recommend servicing your air conditioning system every 2 years to keep it running efficiently.
R134a is the older refrigerant used in vehicles manufactured before 2017. R1234yf is the newer, more environmentally friendly gas used in modern vehicles.
Bad odors are usually caused by a buildup of bacteria and mold in the system. An anti-bacterial clean will remove these and leave your car smelling fresh.
Low refrigerant levels caused by leaks are one of the most common causes, but electrical faults and component failures can also be responsible. Additionally too much gas also affects the system which is why it's important to have your A/C system serviced professionally.
Yes. We can diagnose and repair many common air conditioning leaks, including condensers, pipework and seals.
Not always. If your vehicle's air conditioning system has no refrigerant remaining, it is illegal to simply refill the system without first checking for leaks. At Bulldog Motors, we carry out a pressure test using either Oxygen Free Nitrogen (OFN) or a Nitrogen/Hydrogen gas mixture, allowing us to safely and accurately identify any leaks within the system. If the system passes the pressure test and no leaks are found, we can then proceed with the regas, giving you confidence that the refrigerant won't simply escape again.
