Hours:

  • Mon: 8:00AM - 5:00AM
  • Tue: 8:00AM - 5:00AM
  • Wed: 8:00AM - 5:00AM
  • Thu: 8:00AM - 5:00AM
  • Fri: 8:00AM - 5:00AM
  • Sat: Closed
  • Sun: Closed

221 Viking Ave, Brea, CA 92821

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 Star Auto Service & AC, 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.

What Our Customers Say

Rob fixed my car’s A/C quickly and did an amazing job. He’s super nice, and the price was very fair. I had recharged the refrigerant myself, but it leaked onto the car body — Rob even helped clean it up without me asking. He’s very detail-oriented and thoughtful. I also appreciate that his shop offers a 3-year warranty, which shows they stand by their work. I’ll definitely recommend him to my friends and come back again if I need anything!

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~ , 07/10/2025

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Serving Areas

Star Auto Service & AC

221 Viking Ave
Brea, CA 92821

Certifications and Associations

  • ACDelco
  • ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
  • Hybrid and Electrical Repair
  • MACS
  • NAPA
  • AAA Approved Auto Repair
  • ASE Master Technician
  • STAR Certified Test and Repair Shop


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