How to Test an Automobile's Air Conditioner
When your car's air conditioning is acting up, it could leave you feeling very uncomfortable in the summer season. Test your car's A/C system by inspecting the ECM, which is your car's internal computer. You may also have to check the air compressor and test the lubrication of the refrigerant. There are a number of ways to troubleshoot the air conditioning and diagnose the problem.
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Instructions
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Locate the ECM under the engine compartment inside the car. Remove the small plastic caps. Remove the screws on both sides of the center of the console with a Phillips screwdriver. Remove the trim panel from both sides to expose the ECM.
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Inspect the serpentine belt. This is the component that supplies power and rotates the compressor. The compressor acts as a refrigerant pump. If the belt is broken or faulty, it will not power the compressor.
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Insert the key into the ignition one click to the right and turn the A/C to the "On" position. Turn the dial to the coldest settings. Idle the engine for a few minutes. Open the hood of the car and inspect the clutch. Located in front of the compressor, the clutch should rotate. If it is not rotating, your air conditioner system is low on refrigerant and will need to be recharged with a recharge kit.
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Inspect the fuses under the dash panel, located under the hood power distribution center. Replace the fuses if necessary and test the air conditioner again. The fuse may have caused a short circuit. If this is the case, it will require a diagnosis using a wiring schematic to locate the short circuits.
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Check the static pressure charge of the system by turning the engine off and attaching an AC gauge to the pressure port. The temperature should be between 50 psi to 80 psi, depending on the outside temperature.
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Check for refrigerant leaks with a refrigerant leak detector. Also look for oily residue on the refrigerant, hoses, compressor, condenser, evaporator or receiver drier for any indication a leak has occurred.
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Turn the key one click right to engage the engine and let it idle. Turn the blower motor speed to "low" and switch the temperature dial from "warm" to "cold." Bring your ear to the vent and listen for the sound of the heater box swinging the flap from open to close. If you don't hear a sound, there may be a vacuum leak or the motor may need to be repaired.
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References
- Photo Credit yellow car, a honda japanese sport car model image by alma_sacra from Fotolia.com
