Electric cars have AC, but it works differently from petrol and diesel vehicles. If you drive a Tesla, BMW i4, Hyundai Ioniq 5, or VW ID.4, this article is for you.
Heat Pump Instead of a Belt-Driven Compressor
In petrol cars, the AC compressor is driven by the engine via a belt. Electric cars don't have that belt. The compressor is electric and powered by the battery. Most new EV models use a heat pump that can both cool and heat the cabin. This is more efficient than PTC heaters, which simply convert electricity to heat like a boiler. Tesla Model 3/Y, BMW iX, Mercedes EQS, VW ID.3/ID.4, Hyundai Ioniq 5/6, and Kia EV6 all have heat pumps.
What Can Go Wrong
The most common EV AC issues we see at HOT22 Varna. First: reduced range in winter. Heating uses 15-30% of the battery, especially below 0°C. The heat pump is 2-3 times more efficient than a PTC heater, but it still draws from the battery. If your range drops more than usual, check whether the heat pump is working properly.
Second: heat pump error on the dashboard. Tesla, for example, shows "Heat pump performance reduced" or "Climate control limited". Causes can be low refrigerant (yes, EVs use refrigerant too, usually R1234yf), a faulty sensor, or an expansion valve issue.
Third: noise or vibrations from the electric compressor. Electric compressors run at high RPMs (up to 8000) and produce different sounds than mechanical ones. Buzzing or whining when turning on the AC may be normal for some models, but could also signal bearing problems.
Having a similar issue? Contact us for quick diagnostics.
Which Refrigerant Do EVs Use
Almost all EVs use R1234yf. Specifically: Tesla Model 3/Y/S/X, R1234yf, 400-550g. BMW i3/i4/iX, R1234yf, 450-650g. Mercedes EQA/EQB/EQC/EQS, R1234yf, 500-750g. VW ID.3/ID.4/ID.5, R1234yf, 570-650g. Hyundai Ioniq 5/6, R1234yf, 470-530g. Kia EV6/EV9, R1234yf, 470-600g. Nissan Leaf (older models), R134a, 350-400g. Peugeot e-208, R1234yf, 380-450g. Volvo XC40 Recharge, R1234yf, 500-600g. Renault Zoe/Megane E-Tech, R1234yf, 400-500g. These are approximate. The exact amount is on the sticker under the hood.
Can We Service Your Electric Car
Yes. At HOT22 Varna, we have a TEXA station for R1234yf and a diagnostic scanner compatible with all the brands and models listed above. The difference when working on EVs is that the system runs at high voltage (400-800V), so proper equipment and trained staff are essential. Don't try to recharge an EV AC system at a garage shop.
When to Visit Us
If your range drops more than usual with the AC on. If you see a heat pump or climate control error. If the AC doesn't cool or heat enough. If you hear unusual noise from the compressor area. Or simply before winter, for a check-up. Call 089 338 3443.
Related Services
EV AC & Heat Pump Service
AC and heat pump diagnostics for Tesla, BMW i, Mercedes EQ, VW ID, Hyundai/Kia EV and other electric vehicles in Varna.
AC Repair & Recharge
Full diagnostics, refrigerant recharge with R134a and R1234yf, leak repair and complete AC system overhaul.
Seasonal Maintenance
Preparing the AC system for summer or winter — full inspection and maintenance.
