SC430 - 2nd Gen (2001-2010)

AC stopped working overnight!

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Old 05-02-24, 09:12 AM
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mcgene
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Default AC stopped working overnight!

Dang!!!!!
Yesterday my battery died (noted in a separate post). I put a charger on it and it has been starting fine ever since.
NOW -- the AC does not cool. I had an appointment this morning and it was a bit muggy, so I engaged the AC. The compressor appears to have come on but nothing but HOT air.
Really, could something simple be the problem? I can't imagine ALL the coolant escaped overnight all of a sudden. Could it be a fuse or something I can address?
I have an appointment next Tuesday to have the AC checked out if I can't resolve the problem before then.
Thanks for any suggestions.
-gene
Old 05-02-24, 09:30 AM
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dwoods801
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There can be many possible culprits causing your A/C to blow hot air, it can pretty difficult to diagnose or even narrow down the the possibilities without access to the car. And it’s not as simple as walking through a standard checklist either. So unfortunately your best bet is to keep that appointment with your technician l, so that the problem can be identified.if you have any further questions about the diagnosis or recommendation, you get better responses
Old 05-02-24, 09:50 AM
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gleeson
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gene,

i found these instructions posted by Sc888 for running ac diagnostics.

hopefully, it will help you narrow down the cause of your ac issues.
Attached Files
File Type: pdf
AirCon Diagnostics.pdf (85.0 KB, 13 views)
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Old 05-02-24, 10:31 AM
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DshngDaryl
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I would take your car to an auto parts store and have your charging system checked for free. They will tell you if your Alternator and battery are working properly.

When I had an alternator problem my AC stopped working (but so did my radio)

Also, it seems like too much of a timing coincidence it happened after your battery issue.

Another thought is It is possible that jump starting your car might have blown a fuse. PLUS, It is free to check.
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Old 05-02-24, 05:14 PM
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mcgene
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Thanks, guys. The pdf should be very helpful -- and a visit to a local auto parts store is also an excellent idea.
BTW, I did not "jump start" the car -- I only put a charger on the battery. I disconnected the negative cable -- I hope that was the right thing to do.
I guess it's pretty obvious that I'm not gifted mechanically
-gene
Old 05-03-24, 04:56 AM
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mcgene
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Just a quick update on calling 3 separate auto stores locally.
Sadly, none perform any kind of diagnostic checks on AC systems. It was a great suggestion nonetheless.
Will give you guys an update after I visit my local mechanic next Tuesday.
Old 05-03-24, 05:41 AM
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Tanker
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Originally Posted by mcgene
Just a quick update on calling 3 separate auto stores locally.
Sadly, none perform any kind of diagnostic checks on AC systems. It was a great suggestion nonetheless.
Will give you guys an update after I visit my local mechanic next Tuesday.
I think they wanted you to check the charging system, it failing can effect other things.
Old 05-03-24, 07:54 AM
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mcgene
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Hey, Tanker, did you mean I should check the charging system on the car? If so, how do I do that? The PDF file shared with me was devoted to the AC system.
Old 05-05-24, 10:05 AM
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DshngDaryl
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your problem seems pretty serious, you should keep your Tuesday appointment with your mechanic. I am interested in hearing what he finds
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Old 05-07-24, 10:50 AM
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Originally Posted by DshngDaryl
your problem seems pretty serious, you should keep your Tuesday appointment with your mechanic. I am interested in hearing what he finds
Any word from your mechanic yet?
Old 05-09-24, 11:22 AM
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mcgene
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Here's the latest....
My mechanic said the compressor was shot. Not sure I fully understand since I thought it was engaging when I pressed the AC button.
Nonetheless, I just order one (OEM - Denso) and the installation kit. $439.00
I'll keep you posted after installation. Nice mechanic -- no charge for checking out the system
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Old 05-16-24, 01:33 PM
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mcgene
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Update 5/16/2024
My mechanic installed the new Denso AC compressor along with the installation kit.
Services performed in addition to the compressor replacement include AC oil, Freon, recovery, evacuation and recharge
Total labor cost...$368
Total cost with parts + labor amounted to about $750
Based on my quick research the cost of the parts alone from the dealer is over $700. That eased the pain a little
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