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Old Nov 18, 2021 | 05:36 PM
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Default C5 a/c

On my 02 C5 base, when the A/C switch is pushed in it will light up for 5 seconds and go off. The air coming out the vents is not cool.
Where do I start?
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Old Nov 18, 2021 | 05:45 PM
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Take the car to an AC shop and have them check the refrigerant level and also for a leak !!
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Old Nov 18, 2021 | 06:16 PM
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Thanks, I’ll have them check it out.
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Old Nov 20, 2021 | 08:40 PM
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Originally Posted by Escue
Thanks, I’ll have them check it out.
In the spring, I often see many of the local generic shops (Pep-Boys, Tuffy, FIrestone, Midas) run an A/C check special, often on the range of $30 or so (pre-pandemic, so probably higher now).
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Old Nov 21, 2021 | 10:37 AM
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That’s a good idea when specials are available. I’ll keep my eye open for a deal.
The last time I was at a Firestone shop, the mechanics were unable to tell which end of a screwdriver to use. I bet it’s worse now that qualified mechanics are difficult to find and hire.
I now go to privately owned shops where the owner/mechanic does the work.
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Old Nov 21, 2021 | 11:40 AM
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Sounds like an electrical issue maybe, temp sensor failing, car thinking it has hit or exceeded target temp. AC leak wouldn't explain system changing its own settings.
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Old Nov 21, 2021 | 12:42 PM
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I just replaced the Temp Sensor this past week. It could be the wiring to the sensor is the problem.
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Old Nov 21, 2021 | 04:28 PM
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Originally Posted by MrMcE
Sounds like an electrical issue maybe, temp sensor failing, car thinking it has hit or exceeded target temp. AC leak wouldn't explain system changing its own settings.
Low refrigerant pressure will cause the “low pressure switch” to open disconnecting the circuit powering A/C compressor clutch and light on A/C power button.

It’s to protect the compressor from damage being run with low refrigerant.
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Old Nov 21, 2021 | 06:47 PM
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Originally Posted by 1999corvettels1
Low refrigerant pressure will cause the “low pressure switch” to open disconnecting the circuit powering A/C compressor clutch and light on A/C power button.

It’s to protect the compressor from damage being run with low refrigerant.
You are 100% correct except that the AC system uses a “low pressure sensor” and not a switch but you are still right !!
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Old Nov 21, 2021 | 08:13 PM
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Originally Posted by C5 Diag
You are 100% correct except that the AC system uses a “low pressure sensor” and not a switch but you are still right !!
Haha that’s why I used the quotation marks, different terminology on automotive A/C and HVAC on homes and buildings and refrigeration, I’m not a professional on automotive A/C but am on the non automotive side.

Same basic theory though.
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