Air conditioner stopped blowing cold air.

[timbob101]

I have a 1999 Toyota Corolla LE. My air conditioner recently has gone out. It works on and off for about five minutes at a time every few hours, and has completely stopped blowing cold air as of a few weeks ago. The compressor kicks on and cycles as it should, and the freon levels are full. No problems with the switches on the interior, as the AC light comes on when pressed, and my defrost still works adequately. The glass lens under the hood shows no bubbles, and I have checked for leaks both visually and with lights. Also, I have tested the fuse, which is also working. Any suggestions?

[96coroll]

Hey

I'm having the same issue did you solve your problem?

[expertmax]

Sounds like it's the compressor itself.

[Bernie3]

There could be a number of reasons for your problem but the most likely is that your system is low on refrigerant.

I am not explicitly familiar with your A/C's configuration, but typically there is a sensor that prevents the compressor from running when the refrigerant pressure is too low. Usually a minimum amount of refrigerant is needed in the system for the compressor to turn on. The sensor is there to prevent damage to the system and compressor. When the compressor turns on pressure levels fluctuate, the sensor detects the pressure change and if necessary cuts off the compressor.

If you have a sight glass on top of the accumulator, see if it looks cloudy or bubbly when the compressor is running. That is a clear indication that you are low on refrigerant. The accumulator is a reservoir like container in line with the refrigerant line. It should have a half inch or so sight glass on top.

There are A/C refill kits available from auto parts stores. Air conditioning systems in cars are never perfectly sealed and always leak a small amount. If you have to add much more than 8 oz. in your system each year then you should test for leaks and repair them.

Caution: Do not work on your system unless you are familiar with air conditioning. A/C systems operate at very high pressures and beside other dangers, the refrigerant can burn you. Also, be aware that it is illegal to release refrigerant to the atmosphere. This is enforced by means of heavy fines and possible jail time.

[Bernie3]

My apologies, I meant to say receiver dryer rather than accumulator.