ok, so I know this is pretty generic issue, but wanted to get a recommended check off process for troubleshooting an air conditioning problem.


let me describe my issue: the car was parked while I was saving to have a clutch repaired. when I got it back from dealership, noticed no A/C. I assumed that since it had been several months, maybe it leaked out Freon. when I hit the ac button, usually you hear it drag on the motor, but I heard or feel nothing. thought it was low Freon pressure not allowing the compressor to engage. so I bought a can, with a guage. when I went to install, with ac on high, motor running, the can immediately showed high pressure. I've heard not to add under those conditions, so I stopped. I started looking to see if the clutch was pulling in, I can't seem to see if it is.


my first thought is the relay, but I have no diagram showing which relay is for the A/C. or a fuse if one also. any Ideas where I should start checking?


thanks in advance!


Jon
2004 Xtype, 2.5 Manual 169K miles

 

Same symptoms happened for me. A new compressor, receiver dryer and a few misc parts & $1300 later all is well!

 

was that at a dealership?

 

No, was at a local service shop. Accumulator & hose assembly also had to be replaced. That had the largest labor charge.

 

I swapped the relay with another, and clutch is engaging now. just a little low on Freon. I'll add a can and monitor. lucky me!


Jon

 

Very lucky you!

 

For the system to work correctly, the refrigerant must be added by weight. Attempting to add refrigerant without the proper equipment can damage the compressor and other components.

Under normal conditions, there should be no loss of refrigerant unless a leak develops somewhere in the system.

It may be best to have the work done by an air conditioning specialist so the system can be evacuated, checked for leaks and the correct amount of refrigerant then added.

 

while I know these are sealed systems, and should not lose refrigerant unless a flaw exists, I also know it is common to get a small leak, commonly near the evaporator, that will really leak off your refrigerant during the winter months while running heat near those coils.


I use a pressure gage to add coolant. before I pay $1300 to have repairs done, the economics major wanna be in me will try adding $14 of coolant maybe twice a year until I get rid of this car for a nicer jag....


but hey, you are giving good advice, and thanks to all who help us rookies out!!!!

 

Not to butt in too much..But typically a leak develops around the compressor drive shaft seal..Not saying leaks don't form in other places, such as mechanical fittings, etc..But the most common leak is the compressor seal..There is a reason to run the A/C system once in a while during all months of the year..helps keep this seal lubricated and prevents premature wear out and leaking.

To add refrigerant is tricky for the novice..as most people don't realize that just adding refrigerant can introduce air into the system if the hoses weren't purged before attaching to the charging port (Low Side of System)..And then there is the concern of putting in too much..