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By Lenin Aboagye

HOW TO DIAGNOSE YOUR CAR’S AC PROBLEMS

HOW TO DIAGNOSE YOUR CAR’S AC PROBLEMS

1-IS YOUR AC COOL BUT NOT COLD?

If the air conditioning is set to max cool and fans on high, but is only blowing moderately cool air:

  • Check to see that the cooling fans on the condenser or radiator are running when the air conditioning is on.
  • Look for any restrictions like leaves, bugs or dirt that would keep air from passing over the condenser.
  • Check the cabin air filter to ensure that it is not clogged.

Check the pressures in the system using a manifold gauge set. The recommended high-side and low-side pressures can be found in the repair manual.

 

2-START WITH THE AC COMPRESSOR

When diagnosing an air conditioning issue, it's easiest to begin at the compressor:

  • With the engine running turn the A/C on max cool, set fans high, and make sure that the clutch is engaging on the compressor.Note: this is not the pulley, but the center piece that engages the pulley to the compressor shaft. If the clutch is engaging and disengaging rapidly, the refrigerant may be low.
  • If the clutch is not engaging, use a voltmeter to check for voltage getting to the compressor.
  • If there is voltage - the clutch may be bad.

If there is no voltage - a cycling switch may be bad, a fuse may be blown, and the system may not have enough refrigerant pressure to trip the low pressure cutoff switch that cycles the compressor.

 

3-MOST PROBLEMS ARE CAUSED BY LEAKS

Leaks are the most common problem associated with the air conditioning system.
If pressure is low, then there may be a leak:

  • Using a UV A/C leak detection kit is the easiest way to find a leak. Follow the instructions on the packaging to introduce UV dye to the system and UV light to find the leak.
  • Check around all fittings to verify that they are all secure.
  • Check hose manifolds on the compressor.
  • Check the front seal and the o-rings sealing the pressure switches on the back of some compressors.
  • Check where the hoses are crimped onto the fittings.
  • Check the Schrader Valves.
  • Check for pin holes in the condenser.
  • Check where the evaporator drains condensation with UV light. Sometimes oil or dye can be seen.

Note: The dye check will not work if the system is too low and the compressor is not cycling.