gordie

The AC suddenly stopped cooling (or heating) on my 2001 RX300 with about 180k miles. Any insights on what to check or a likely diagnosis? I don't want to go to a mechanic blind/ignorant, but I can't wait long to fix this given it's mid-August and I live in Central Texas and have young kids riding in the car.

A friend told me to listen for a "click" when I turn on the AC, which he said indicates that a switch is energizing the clutch on the AC compressor. I do hear the "click" when turning on the system, for whatever that is worth, but his advice was general not based on lexus RX. Again in neither cools nor heats.

Any other tips to do a little self-diagnosis before I go pay a mechanic to tell me what's NOT the problem? Anyone have a mechanic they trust to not deceive or overcharge for work on a Lexus in Austin, TX?

Thanks!

PS: I tried to search forums but didn't come up with anything helpful, surprisingly...maybe just used poor search terms?

fastnoypi

unless you have an ac manifold gauge set there isnt much you can do for self diagnosis. The compressor switch will not activate if you drop below a specified pressure of refrigerant.

A reputable mechanic will measure the pressure, use a sniffer to detect leaks, and replace any suspect dried o-rings at the connections. Preferably go to a shop that specializes in auto ac repair. Others will just hook up a can of refrigerant and wait for you to come back when it all leaks out again.

gordie

Thanks for the input. Any suggestions for reputable chains that specialize in Auto AC? I've only ever seen chains that market themselves that way and don't have experience with any of them.

Bobster999

If your A/C and heat dont work, I highly doubt the problem would be low on refrigerant. The two systems are separate. Anyway, if u want any internet diagnostics, u must at least list more info and details ie........ is the blower fan working? A/C button on? is the condenser fan running when the A/C is on? etc.....

gordie

My initial reaction was to take offense that you thought I was that stupid. Whelp, guess what? Hahaha!

We never turn that AC button off, and the temp is digital so I didn't even think to look for the light. But our 2 year old loves to push every button in the car if given half a chance, and grandma recently gave him 5 minutes alone in there! It isn't the first and won't be the last time he makes a fool out of Dad.

Mystery solved, and it only cost me some pride. Thanks!