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Need some advice. I have the general problems that are common with C5 auto a/c control (dim display, etc). But over the past few months, the A/C would only cool if I turned it down to 60degrees and it would run/blow full tilt. However, now, the A/C doesn't cool at all. Just blowing outside air (if not a little warmer than outside) on the driver side and the passenger side feels slightly cooler (but only VERY slight). I also found that the passenger controls do not affect anything on the passenger side (won't go warmer when turned all the way up). So.... My guess is the control unit has finally bit it. Of course, could have other A/C problems too. Now.... The shop that I like to use tells me they will only install new units from the dealership because they have warranties then. Any idea what the dealership parts price is? I've seen on gmpartsdirect it runs in the mid $200s, but MSRP is like twice that. Or would taking it to the dealership to have them fix the whole shooting match? OR do I get the cheapest price for a new one and try doing the replacement myself, even if it isn't the whole A/C issue. Hmmmm....
Need some advice. I have the general problems that are common with C5 auto a/c control (dim display, etc). But over the past few months, the A/C would only cool if I turned it down to 60degrees and it would run/blow full tilt. However, now, the A/C doesn't cool at all. Just blowing outside air (if not a little warmer than outside) on the driver side and the passenger side feels slightly cooler (but only VERY slight). I also found that the passenger controls do not affect anything on the passenger side (won't go warmer when turned all the way up). So.... My guess is the control unit has finally bit it. Of course, could have other A/C problems too. Now.... The shop that I like to use tells me they will only install new units from the dealership because they have warranties then. Any idea what the dealership parts price is? I've seen on gmpartsdirect it runs in the mid $200s, but MSRP is like twice that. Or would taking it to the dealership to have them fix the whole shooting match? OR do I get the cheapest price for a new one and try doing the replacement myself, even if it isn't the whole A/C issue. Hmmmm....
Thanks,
Drew "Coyote"
Hi, Quite often the control head goes dim, but all functions still work. There are numerous threads about getting good servicable rebuilt ones from various sources. It would be a good idea to check your vacuum lines, the one behind the manifold that may have come loose, and the ones under the battery box that may have broke or been eaten by battery acid. They can cause the problems you are having. Also the outside temp sensor can also cause similar problems. Also it's possible that the system is low on refridgerant. It's best to eliminate these simple problems before looking for more complicated fixes. You could put in a new control head and it would be brighter, but you would still have the other problems. I would look at these items first and once sure that they were ok move on to other possibilities.
Good Luck
Last edited by bestvettever; Jun 10, 2008 at 11:48 PM.
I just had the same problem with the ac being cooler on the passenger side and the driver's side blowing ambient air... Looked here for answers, and found a post not too old that directed others like us to the Do It Yourself Thread, Post 11.
I was low on refrigerant, I bought one of those R134a bottles with the low end gauge at wal mart and did as post said... problem solved.... blows COLD air now
Last edited by BAMbrick; Jun 10, 2008 at 11:54 PM.
Reason: cant spell
Designer Imagines A Corvette That Looks More Like a Corvette Than the Corvette
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