Working Hours
  • Mon 8:00AM - 5:00PM
    Tue 8:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Wed 8:00AM - 5:00PM
    Thu 8:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Fri 8:00AM - 5:00PM
    Sat Closed
  • Sun Closed
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704-633-2223 | 1616 Jake Alexander Blvd S, Salisbury, 28146

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 Central Automotive, 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.

More AC Repair Services:

Truck and Car AC Repair Services

Freon Recharging Services For Your Car Or Truck

AC Evaporator Services


What Our Customers Are Saying

I was at Central Auto at or around this date, it was about a month ago. I had an appt for a tire sensor, ended up having a flat the next day from a previous auto place's shoddy work (and obnoxious claims of immediately needing over 2k in parts just by touching one tire on our SUV). Central was great and allowed us to come in early morning and not wait until our afternoon appointment time to get our tire patched and sensors reprogrammed. I was there a time before and we will be getting work done shortly on our terrain that was not immediate. We've had nothing but great experiences since we've gone and the owner has been open and honest about work that does need to be done.

, 09/15/2023

Servicing my vehicles for years. Recently installed new engine in truck. They have bent over backwards to make sure everything is right. Fun friendly crew. Thanks for all you've done!!!!!!

, 08/02/2023

reviewiconProfessional Auto Repair

They know their business, and the price wasn't too bad, I take my cars there cause I know I don't have to worry about any issues after, they fill you in on all your car repair needs



reviewiconHonest and Dependable

The staff was phenomenal and extremely helpful. Very informative and honest. The previous reviews definitely helped and I would recommend them



reviewiconAmazing Service

Great service, great people, highly recommended!



reviewiconHighly Recommended

Great shop, great people. Cashier was beyond professional with a great personality. Definitely will be back.



  • ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
  • NAPA
  • O'Reilly Auto Parts
  • Advance Auto Parts
  • Car Care Aware
  • Call Us For Service: 704-633-2223