What Is Wrong With My Air Conditioner In My Car?
It only works when I'm driving. Anytime I have to stop it stops working and starts blowing hot air. It really sucks in stop and go traffic. I was going to add freeon, but used the test that came with the freeon bottle, and it indicated that there is plenty of freeon in the car already. Is it a compressor problem?
Answer:
There are 4 things to consider here, firstly the test that came with the bottle is not very reliable, next there is probably air in the system caused by a leak, you may just have a loose belt, and finally let a professional fill the system instead of trying to do it yourself. Contrary to popular belief refridgerant (R134-A) does not evaporate or escape from your cooling system unless it can find a way out. The most common leaks do come from the compressor, the clutch wears out as do the fittings and the R134 (under pressure) begins to release. In most cases you do not have to replace the compressor but rather have it serviced, clutches can be replaced as can lines and fittings. The other common cause for this problem is a loose belt (would also give you a false reading when testing). If the belt is worn or loose it's not turning the compressor properly and not pressurizing the system enough to cool the vehicle at idle speed. In conclusion....throw away the parts store refridgerant, check your belt for tension/wear (replace/tighten if necessary), if problem persists take it to just about any shop to have the R134-a level checked properly and subsequently any items repaired necessary.