IS - 2nd Gen (2006-2013) Discussion about the 2006+ model IS models

"Check Air Conditioner" notification after alternator replacement

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 03-26-20, 04:12 AM
  #1  
Isex350
7th Gear
Thread Starter
 
Isex350's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2019
Location: N.C
Posts: 7
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
Default "Check Air Conditioner" notification after alternator replacement

I searched the forum but couldn't find anyone with a final solution..

After I had my alternator replaced, whenever i turn on the AC (lately with the defrost) after about 3-5 seconds the AC light starts to flash with the "check Air Conditioner" message. After doing some investigating, It does seem that the compressor is coming on briefly before the light flashes ( I say that because the compressor fan comes on a the car revs higher then, shuts back down) I checked the freon and I noticed it had WAY too much freon so I had it removed to the proper level. I wonder if that had anything to do with it? has anyone had this problem or know of a better link? thanks
2007 IS350
Old 03-26-20, 07:09 AM
  #2  
2013FSport
Lexus Test Driver
iTrader: (2)
 
2013FSport's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2017
Location: OR
Posts: 6,640
Received 1,535 Likes on 1,277 Posts
Default

Too low of volume (low pressure) will cut off but I don't know about too high?

Until a proper gauge set is connected to see the low side suction and the high side pressure, there is no way of knowing if the right charge volume in the system to remove that as the source of the cut off issue.
Old 03-26-20, 07:38 AM
  #3  
Gville350
Moderator
iTrader: (10)
 
Gville350's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: South Carolina
Posts: 11,576
Likes: 0
Received 435 Likes on 387 Posts
Default

So even after you brought the Freon level down to a proper level/pressure, you still are getting this error?
Old 03-26-20, 08:50 AM
  #4  
Isex350
7th Gear
Thread Starter
 
Isex350's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2019
Location: N.C
Posts: 7
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
Default

After I released the pressure once but it still was it in the green so I checked it it didn’t work I released it back into the green but I didn’t check it (got distracted with searching for a pin I dropped from the plastic over the engine lol) but I went to go check it just now and it now works. Disregard. If I can’t delete at least people know to check your pressure as one of the Things to look for with this problem because I couldn’t find anyone with that solution on the forum, I had this solution with a previous vehicle so that’s why i had the idea. Thanks guys.
Old 03-26-20, 10:38 AM
  #5  
timmy0tool
Moderator
Forum Moderator
iTrader: (7)
 
timmy0tool's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: 714/949, SoCal
Posts: 6,999
Received 428 Likes on 382 Posts
Default

i hope the AC lines weren't damaged in the process of replacing the alternator...i can totally see that happening as it's a very tight fit down there for the install.
The following users liked this post:
Isex350 (03-26-20)
Old 03-26-20, 11:33 AM
  #6  
Zmon
Racer
iTrader: (2)
 
Zmon's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2014
Location: Louisiana
Posts: 1,523
Received 221 Likes on 185 Posts
Default

If the freon has never been tampered with, it should never be in a situation where you have too much in the system. If you, or the previous owner (assuming you're not the original owner), didn't add any, then you probably crimped a line taking out the alternator. The thing about freon is that it's a completely sealed system, you're only ever going to be low if there's a leak, or high if you add any. The freon should never ever be touched unless you have had to replace the compressor, or if the system sprung a leak somewhere.

Back to your point though. Again, as mentioned, double check the lines. I would also advise checking the compressor's wiring. This topic has came up before and the installer damaged the OP's wiring when they changed their alternator: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...tioner-on.html
Old 03-26-20, 07:10 PM
  #7  
2013FSport
Lexus Test Driver
iTrader: (2)
 
2013FSport's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2017
Location: OR
Posts: 6,640
Received 1,535 Likes on 1,277 Posts
Default

Again, connect a proper gauge set to it and get the head pressure and suction numbers for the ambient temperature. Without this, it is one BIG guess as to what is going on inside. Google "R134A chart". You'll see what I mean.

How long does the compressor stay engaged when set to maximum cooling?
Related Topics
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
Rramirez
IS - 2nd Gen (2006-2013)
3
05-20-19 02:01 PM
Jenju10
RX - 2nd Gen (2004-2009)
16
03-02-19 02:31 AM
Jenju10
RX - 2nd Gen (2004-2009)
4
01-22-19 12:47 PM
Kimbo44
GS - 2nd Gen (1998-2005)
2
05-10-17 08:08 AM
LiqrSicc
RX - 1st Gen (1999-2003)
13
03-25-07 05:20 PM



Quick Reply: "Check Air Conditioner" notification after alternator replacement



All times are GMT -7. The time now is 11:06 AM.