Whereas all of the elements beneath your hood are fairly effectively protected, it’s not a sealed space. Meaning it’s doable for leaves, bugs, small animals, dust, and different particles to get beneath there with time. In case you’ve ever heard the warning to knock in your hood or honk the horn earlier than beginning your automobile within the winter, that’s as a result of animals can use it as a shelter. Whereas it’s unlikely a cat is inflicting your automobile’s AC issues, it demonstrates the purpose that it’s simple for particles to get in there and trigger hassle.