How to fix a Non-working A/C - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

Jamezzy · 09-15-2010, 03:15 PM

Hey guys. I'm looking to repair my non working A/C in my 1988 Toyota Celica GT liftback (St162). I'm not looking forward to a several hundred dollar repair bill so I'm going for a DIY thing.

I've been researching around, since I knew nothing about A/C systems except for the fact that they use harmful Freon. There's a clutch, compressor, and some tubing and lines and also some wires, oh and fuses.

Now here's the thing, the A/C on this car has never been in use for about 13 or more years. And I've heard a bad compressor can contaminate the system, leading to new lines and a new compressor.

Seeing this as a possibility there are many that can go in this old thing.I have no idea what's wrong except for that it may need some Freon/Refrigerant.

What's the first thing to look for and do? What are the steps? I can take some pictures if needed any help is appreciated thanks.

-James

RobMilkshakes · 09-15-2010, 05:03 PM

The first thing I would look for is if the system does have r12 remaining in it, and if it does, does your AC compressor clutch engage. When you have the ac switch turned on periodically it should make an audible click, also you should notice a small change in your idle as well as the ECU compensates. If there is no refrigerant at all, then the clutch will not engage at all. Many local shops offer a free (or low priced) AC system check. They'll pressurized the system to see if there are any leaks and if your clutch kicks on. From this point you'd be able to narrow down the possibilities.

Rick89GTS · 09-18-2010, 03:11 PM

Rob makes some excellent points. The only thing I would add is to make sure your AC/heat control panel is working properly. On the Gen4's, it is known for malfunctioning due to cracked solder joints.

My AC wasn't working but it turned out to be the AC button solder joints. Once I re-soldered the connection on the circuit board, all was fine again.

Jamezzy · 09-21-2010, 01:21 AM

Thanks guys. I'll see what I can do.

RobMilkshakes · 09-21-2010, 07:48 AM

Rick, thanks for mentioning that. I forgot about the 4th gens, this wouldn't be the first time I've heard about that one.