When i go through a carwash all the windows mist up and it takes about 10 mins with the blowers on to clear the windscreen (i clear the side windows by lowering and closing them or they would take even longer). the windows don't mist up at any other time even in the rain.

Any ideas whats wrong.

The heating works fine but the aircon is not cold.

Thanks

 

anyone ????

 

I assume the moisture is on the inside surfaces of the glass. For condensation to form, the temperature of the glass would need to be below the dew point and the relative humidity fairly high. Possibly the heater plenum is filling with water due to a plugged drain which is then warmed and dispersed throughout the vehicle by the heater fan. The cold(er) glass causes the water to condense.

Just guessing.

 

Maybe the a/c isn't working properly. On LO (keep selecting lower to get there), do you get icy air?

 

+1 on checking the A/C and the drains.

 

the a/c does not get colder than the outsiide air (the light comes on but thats all), it has not worked since i got the car, i was waiting till summer to try a regas.

Where is the "drain" so i can check that.

Thanks

 

If the a/c doesn't work it can't dry out the air, so you're probably stuck with the problem.

Supposedly (and it may well be true) a/c needs using fairly often to keep all the seals and the compressor lubricated or things can fail.

a/c cools to well below zero (C) so should be fine in current UK weather. It's effectively a mobile fridge/freezer (colder than fridge, hotter than freezer).

 

But cars not equipped with A/C don't experience this problem...............

 

Yup, the A/C compressor works all the time in these. The system measures humidity and dries things out with the compressor. Remember, A/C systems both cool air and act as dehumidifiers just like in your house. Also, in my manual under climate control operation one of the warnings about over-riding the A/C switch / light was the possibility of fogged up windows.


Yes they do, just not as bad because they are ducted totally different. I remember back in the day when A/C was optional on everything the dealer added Air always sucked, even if it looked like a factory unit.

Also, sit outside a car with basic A/C. When you turn on Def. most times the A/C compressor will turn on as well.. Even in old cars..

 

regarding the a/c not working, the car does not mist up at all, even in heavy rain and snow ,even when i get in soaking wet it does not mist up, only when i have been through a car wash does it mist up, and it is very heavy thick mist, it takes up to 10mins to clear the windscreen with the heater scorching hot.

 

I've said what I see the fix is.

BTW, if it's short of a/c gas then that's far cheaper than someone to fix seals, a new compressor etc.

 

Right on.


BTW theres a nice FAQ on recharging AC and another on replacing the compressor, even has pictures to guide you.

 

ditto

Wow, is that even a valid slogan anymore or am I just showing my age...