Yesterday my Air Con stopped working and I can hear a wheezing noise behind glove box area - I have checked for fault codes using the Lite version but there are no faults - I am assuming that a leak has occurred within the heater unit or pipework.

 

Any thoughts ?

 

So it looks like a 'dashboard out' job, unless there is another route to get to the faulty part.

 

Any tips or procedures about sorting out the problem greatly appreciated, especially the removal of the dash unit.

 

DB.

Based on your description of where the noise is, I'd start here for that, to rule out simple things.

 

 

As for the A/C no-go, go through the measuring blocks of HVAC module 'til you find one titled 'Compressor shutoff code' and see what number is showing when you try to run it.

Leaked refrigerant should be apparent from a low reading fault code from G65 pressure sensor.

Also check that the bolt in the centre of the compressor pulley is turning with the pulley.

Edited 19 August, 20169 yr by Wino

Wino thanks for helping out, most appreciated.

 

So with the engine on idle & fan speed at 1

 

A/C Off

Comp Load - Pressure - Comp Shut off - Temp

00.00%        - 6.8           - 6.0                  15'.00

 

A/C On

Comp Load - Pressure - Comp Shut off - Temp

53.5%          - 8.6          - 00.00                - 15'.0

 

Engine at 1500 and fan speed at 4

81.00%        - 10.8-13.6  - 00.00              - 15'.00   (10.8 - 13.6 fluctuates)

 

Yes the bolt on the compressor is rotating OK.

 

DB.

They do make a wheezing noise when low on gas,doesn't mean you have any parts that need replacing though.

How long is it since you had it recharged?

Take it to a garage and get it pressure tested before ripping off any parts

Compressor is working, as pressure is rising, and shut-off code 0 means the system is happy that it should be allowed to run.

As Kev says, it could simply be low on gas. Would have thought that would be a gradual thing though, rather than 'yesterday my aircon stopped working'

Well, just been for a run and switching between A/C On to Off, you can detect a small difference in cooler temperature but nothing like it should be.

 

On switching the engine off you can definitely hear what sounds like a deflating pressure behind the dash unit which lasts for about 5-7 seconds.

 

It's never been re-gassed from new in 2007 and neither has my other Fabia since 2004 which works 100%.

 

Should the Compressor Load be 100% when working normally ?

 

DB.

No, comp load varies depending on engine rpm, demanded temp, ambient temp, cabin fan speed etc.

Sounds like it's due a service to me.

2004 and never regassed? I would suggest ringing the guiness book of world records. ....

Not rocket science,take it to a garage and have it regassed

OK, OK, keep your hair on, I was only asking for an opinion.

 

DB. 

OK, OK, keep your hair on, I was only asking for an opinion.

 

DB.

And he gave you his.

And I acknowledged his answer.

 

DB.