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problem with a/c compressor

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Old Mar 1, 2005 | 08:23 AM
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Default problem with a/c compressor


I have recently purchased a 1997 w/ 45k miles, which i thought was pretty good. But I am having a problem with the a/c compressor kicking on. I understand that in certain temperatures that it will not operate. But in 65 degree weather? Has anyone had to deal with the same, or does anyone have any wisdom to share... please help!
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Old Mar 1, 2005 | 08:56 AM
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Default Pressure?

To answer this question you really need to know the a/c system hi/lo side pressures. When the low side is below about 28#'s the switch will open up and the compressor will not run. I suspect you don't have a compressor problem, but a low freon problem. The system used 134a which is not a problem to purchase. If you can do a pressure check I think you will find the problem.

Do not replace the compressor you do not have enough information to justify spending the $$ for this problem. If the compressor is kicking in and running at higher temps it is probably ok.

You might just have someone check the pressures to see if the freon is low before you do any thing to the system. Best of luck.. 99 Nassau Blue
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Old Mar 1, 2005 | 09:01 AM
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I have not been able to get the compressor to kick on at all, the a/c lights blinks about three times and goes back out...
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Old Mar 1, 2005 | 10:01 AM
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Originally Posted by kevo187
I have not been able to get the compressor to kick on at all, the a/c lights blinks about three times and goes back out...
my old 99 coupe did the exact same thing....blink three times and nothing. It was a bad compressor.
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Old Mar 1, 2005 | 12:02 PM
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Originally Posted by War Eagle ZO6
my old 99 coupe did the exact same thing....blink three times and nothing. It was a bad compressor.
Based on symptoms it has something to do with the compressor. A bad one will be expensive to replace. You may just have a low coolant charge. That is easy to fix (and cheap). Unless you have the guages, you will have to have someone check it for you. If it is low, the bigger question is how did it get low. Some leaks are so slow that they are not worth fixing. First step if coolant is low is to re-charge it to see if it "sticks" or leaks back down.

Your first step is to have the coolant level checked (it only takes 5 minutes).

Good luck (and don't sweat it ----)
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Old Mar 1, 2005 | 12:11 PM
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I'm having the same problem on my 99. If it is the compressor how much is it to replace...parts, labor?
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Old Mar 1, 2005 | 12:12 PM
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A low freon charge will prevent the compressor from running!! Have the system recharged. if you are in doubt of the integerity of the charge, have the system vacumed and recharged.

That should take care of it.

BC
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Old Mar 1, 2005 | 12:31 PM
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i have been getting a "low coolant" message upon start-up, is this meaning freon???
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Old Mar 1, 2005 | 12:43 PM
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Originally Posted by kevo187
i have been getting a "low coolant" message upon start-up, is this meaning freon???
No. There is a sensor to tell you when the coolant (antifreeze) is low.
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Old Mar 1, 2005 | 06:30 PM
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Yep, check the ANTIFREEZE level when the low coolant light comes on!
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