Ongoing issue with my 2011 FL VRS TDi.
 

When it works I get cold air but that can take a while to come through. 
 

No codes and been regassed with no leaks from the pressure test. Told compressor is working but only due to cold air coming out after they have left it on max and auto for a while. 
 

I only seem to get cold air when the engine is up to temperature. 
 

However, on very hot days when the car has been sitting out in the sun it can take over 20 mins to get cold air and even then the air fluctuates between cold and less cold air. It does the same even on cooler days. 
 

I have tried the reset - it’s the dual zone climate control - but still not working right. 

My gut feeling is it’s a flap or sensor issue as it can produce cold air but it isn’t consistent coming out of the vents. 
 

Any suggested process on how to diagnose this properly or how to test on vcds with the temp sensors?

 

Garage can only suggest a new compressor but that seems an expensive long shot. They are a VAG specialist so hope I can ask them to run some tests and confirm 100% the real issue. 

I suspect N280 valve.

 

There are posts on it and videos on the Tube.

Have spoken with 3 local garages and they all say the valve cannot be done on its as they only change the whole compressor 😞

 

One said they cannot source the N280 part available either. 
 

Simon

Edited 12 July, 20223 yr by SiW80

Have a butchers at the compressor from below and you'll see the type then just search on the Bay for the correct solenoid, they used to weigh in about 20 sovs.

Valve is readily available and easy to fit, the problem is you will lose the refrigerant charge and create your own personal hole in the ozone layer.

 

If you have VCDS check the post evaporator temperature sensor and also the system pressure but use temperature tables and a thermometer, the pressure should rise to something like 10 bar (temperature dependant) then fall as both fans cut in, the post evaporator temp sensor should show at least 8°c less than the ambient air.

 

If all this is happening then yes, it's likely to be a flap problem, you can also compare the commanded and actual values for the stepper motors in VCDS.

 

Ignore anything it tells you about cmpressor loading, torque or N280 % actuation, its what it thinks should be happening rather than what is hence the above advice.

 

The best and quickest way is with a manifold guage set, they cost less than €30 from Ali-Express or Ebay.