Hole in AC condenser

[usertom]

I have a 2005 outback and my ac quit working. I took it to the dealer and they told me it had a hole in the condenser, which they said was a common problem. The said it was easy for a rock or screw to go through the slats in the front grill and hit the tubing. I have owned my cars and never heard of this happening. Has any heard of this problem. Also any suggestions on how not to have this happen in the future.:

[nipper]

I have a 2005 outback and my ac quit working. I took it to the dealer and they told me it had a hole in the condenser, which they said was a common problem. The said it was easy for a rock or screw to go through the slats in the front grill and hit the tubing. I have owned my cars and never heard of this happening. Has any heard of this problem. Also any suggestions on how not to have this happen in the future.:

 

i never heard of this, but also in the days before AC was common, radiators would on occasion fell pray to the same thing. With the front profile of cars now, its usually the windsheild that takes the hit. With a larger front grill this can happen. Its one of the perils of driving.

There is a way to prevent this, but it requires you keeping an eye on things. First possability is to loof for a bra that covers the nose with a mesh. Second possability is to put chicken wire behind the grill. This second one works well BUT you need to check it for leaves and such in the fall.

Another way is to not tailgate and follow the 2 second rule. That helps avoid road debree from hitting your car..

 

nipper

 

nipper

[idosubaru]

i'd guess it's possible, the condensor is largely malleable metal like aluminum or possible brass. whatever it is, it's not resistant to damage like steel.

 

condensors are very easy to replace. i replaced one earlier this summer.

[mountain brat]

try bug screen in front of it