Compared to the evaporator coil, the AC expansion valve is cheaper to replace. . Route the wires to the car battery. Has brand new compressor, drier and not low on freon. After inspecting the belt, there can only be two things left that could be happening: 1. However, this piece may cost you too much to replace. Paste as plain text instead, If you found out that the problem is because of an overcharged compressor, then drain the refrigerant with a discharged valve that is located near the gauge. If this doesnt start the clutch, the clutch needs to be replaced. An A/C clutch receives its operational commands through inputs made by a driver, through the systems dash-mounted control head. RELATED: 4 Symptoms of a Bad AC Pressure Switch (High or Low). The failure of any of these sensors can render an A/C clutch inoperable. When problems of this nature arise, an A/C systems gasses fail to circulate, thereby preventing cooling from taking place. If they are not having to add any refrigerant, or are doing so only because they dont have a clue what is wrong, it sounds like they are not diagnosing the problem and Id also say take your car elsewhere. Notes: A/C install kit, Includes: Filter Drier, Expansion Valve, Compressor Oil, Necessary O-Rings and Gaskets, Cap and Valve Kit. Enginge Shut Down Stop Safly Now This Messige Come Every 10 To 20 Minute. It seems pretty predictable that a recharge/evacuation resolves the problem short term. My A/c Blows Warm Air No Matter What Setting It Is On. Mechanic's Assistant: Have you checked the Freon level? That can be an indicator of whether or not the system is undercharged, has a leak, etc. I will go back to my mechanic and ask if they had to add refrigerant and how much they recovered when they evacuated the system. I thought it might be low on freon, but when I went to check the low pressure, I got a low pressure reading of 100, which is way too high. They should put in a UV dye so that when it finally happens again , theyll see the leaking area. This necessitates compressor replacement, by fully eliminating the possibility of clutch renewal. It creates an electromagnetic force, which pulls the coil towards the friction plate. The AC compressor is getting a command to turn on but is no longer able to, which would indicate that it needs replacing. Started 14 hours ago, By We took it to our mechanic (who I trust). Even with the key off, treat them like they can still come on. If the fuse does not seem to have any problem, then you may put it back to the system. TomsFocus #2. Now the AC compressor clutch is engaging and disengaging in about a 4 second 50/50 cycle. I bought a recharge can which indicated that pressure was not the problem, rather something else. Compressor does not run in any AC mode. Amazon Link AC Relays (Honda) - https://amzn.to/34vFNsrAmazon Link AC Relays (Toyota) - https://amzn.to/2NaBJbNIf your A/C compressor clutch won't engage bec. SKU # 886341. Sounds to me like you have a leak somewhere. Thats why Ive decided to put up my very own website. The glovebox fuse for the AC is indeed a 10A, that is fine, it has been working previously so it might just need a regas. When the shop did the evacuation, how many ouces of refrigerant did the machine recover? It could even be missing entirely without you noticing if it is an independent belt. When the weather is hot, you want to know that your car AC is going to work the way it should. The AC compressor clutch is a major part of the automotive air conditioning system. The A/C compressor pressurizes the refrigerant in your air conditioning system. Can It Just Be Low On Hi might look to manually run the AC pump directly at the clutch end. There is an AC relay in the relay box next to the battery. From you description, it sounds as though the system isn't building enough pressure, and by relation enough heat to turn the cooling fans on. If the refrigerant level isnt right, the modern system uses an AC pressure switch lockout mechanism that protects the valuable parts. But, first, youll need to locate the compressor relay. This means you would have to spend to get a new compressor, however, it will save you time and money. Upload or insert images from URL. 2012 ford fusion evaporator temperature sensor bypass. Here is to hoping its a 60 cent o-ring. If it has blown, your only option is to replace it. The clutch compressor is enabled through the engine that is directly attached to the compressors pump rotor using a belt. Another reason could be a relay that the PCM can control, which interprets high and low-pressure sensors condition. This helps the refrigerant to turn into a gas. This may require fixing or replacement. Previously the air didn't work when set at level 2 and 3 of the four levels. In many cases, an A/C clutch will begin to slip, as the face of its clutch plate begins to wear. However, many components make up the air conditioning system, so your problem could be entirely different. Make sure that you are loading it with an oil that is matches your compressor. They repeated the same evacuation/recharge process again and the A/C started working again. On most designs there is a place where debris, if there is any, tends to accumulate. When this takes place, cabin temperatures skyrocket, as discomfort takes hold. If the fuse is fine, then you need to check the clutch relay. Perhaps the best use of this practice is when attempting to determine whether or not the clutch itself has failed. 85ltdcrownvic. - My E350's AC was not working (clutch not engaging) so I added two cans (22 oz.) zain611 RECALLS! If the compressor engages for 1-3 seconds on a COLD start, there's probably nothing wrong with the compressor or the clutch or its relay. Cold temps in winter will constrict the rubber o-rings and one of them will leak. You should check the following areas before making any new fixes. Check your owners manual to find the fuse for the AC clutch. Pennzoil vs. Mobil 1 Oil: Differences & Which Is Better? Pasted as rich text. Youll need a jump wire. Do not get the 12 volts to the clutch so cannot be the clutch. However, most car AC systems now use an electromagnetic clutch piece that engages the compressor to spin the air conditioning unit. No, old AC compressors with a clutch should not spin all the time. There are shops that wont throw their hands up so quickly. Please check your cars AC manual to know its right level of pressure. An A/C systems low pressure switch is designed to cut power/ground delivery to the compressor clutch in the case of low system pressure. 3. Blower fan works but hot pig tails assuming it's on it way out. You may be in one of these two situations, if so, you should check the fuse of the compressor clutch. Free In-Store or Curbside Pick Up. Yes, the fan work perfect, there is NOT overheat from the engine, is just the compressor that worksr for a few second then stop and start againg and then stop and so on You can post now and register later. The clutch is not getting a signal to turn on. The AC compressor is getting a command to turn on but is no longer able to, which would indicate that it needs replacing. Ill also update when I get a resolution to the problem. Certified Automotive Diagnostic Technician. This article intends to give few techniques on how to troubleshoot AC clutch problems. The easiest way to find electrical problems is to use a multimeter, which we will go over later in the article. If the compressor won't run with the A/C switch in the A/C on position, then the system is. Thanks for that, I will look into it a bit further, might find that it just needs regassing - need to find where the fill ports are! Started 12 hours ago, By Method 2: Jump-start The Clutch The process is a bit different for older cars that are not compatible with the R134a type. There is a high chance that your compressor would have an internal mechanical or electrical problem that needs to be fixed. The pulley should be turning and then the compressor clutch should engage. Normally it's just a regas. Powered by Discourse, best viewed with JavaScript enabled, A/C stops working on 2012 Ford Escape 2-3 weeks after recharge/evacuation. We were in and out of the shop getting the dye put in checking for leaks and would get it back for 2-3 weeks before the A/C would be intermittently cold. One comes from the power relay and one from the fuse. It could also be of poor ground or a low-pressure lockout. Check if this fits your 2012 Ford Escape. We are a team of ASE certified mechanics Your cars AC system contains many electrical wires and connections. Just wondering if you ever found a fix??? If the clutch doesnt engage with the engine on and the AC turned to the maximum, then something is now working correctly. Started August 26, 2012, By 2. Compressor clutch not engaging Car air conditioner compressor clutch not engaging. Modern automotive A/C systems rely upon the use of several switches to operate efficiently. You should check this area for bad noises and bad smells. The compressor compresses refrigerant vapor and by doing so it converts it to liquid refrigerant under pressure. Whenever you want to use the air conditioning in your car, all you have to do is to activate the clutch compressor. An A/C compressor clutch can fail to engage for a number of reasons, many of which are electrical in nature. Cooling, Heating, Ventilation & A/C - AC Compressor clutch cycles on & off? It also gives an insight into how the system works. Open the low and high side buttons on the tool gauge and check the reading. It should be on whenever the a/c is on. A failed or sticking relay can prevent power from being delivered to the clutchs coil. srpocd25 That is why the pressure switch is there. First, turn ON the AC and fan to the maximum. Tiny bits of metal can clog your AC condenser. Symptoms. The same applies if the freon pressure is too high. 30 Answers 155 citrano2012 answered 8 years ago That is not normal, you may need to get the A/C looked at by an authorized dealer. that have created this guide for you so you can understand how the system works Once you find the appropriate fuse, check the functionality with your multimeter. Don't leave it running to long like that though. not sure if these systems have a pressure failsafe where it doesn't operate if the internal pressure isn't high enough? If you jump the low pressure switch with the engine running, do it only for a few seconds. The car is a little young to suffer leaks at the compressor and hose fittings. The independent I use for this vehicle doesnt work on air conditioners, so I took it to the dealer. Click Here for the 5 best options. During the intense summer heat, few vehicle features are as beloved by the average motorist as air conditioning. Fv 27, 2023 . Mechanic's Assistant: What year is your Escape? (Or Is It Just a Convenience? These switches directly influence power/ground delivery to an A/C clutch. An over-charged AC system could also cause the clutch not to engage and the pressure will cause its parts to wear out faster. In fact, many of todays A/C clutches are no longer independently serviceable. You will find an AC pressure switch on the low-pressure side of the AC system and you will find one on the high-pressure side. Is this normal? JordyC123 then recharge the system and add uv dye, let it run for awhile, then look for leaks, If none are found, check again in a few months. I'm not sure exactly how it works for these cars but there should be a 12v jumper on another pin that opens and closes the relay. The official Ford website can be found at http://www.ford.co.uk/. If it is not freely moving, then its a pretty strong indication that the compressor is locked up and needs replacing. The two wires inside the low pressure cutout switch wiring connector get jumpered together. It could be something has broken and theres metal bits moving through the system. If they arent having to add freon, then either the compressors not engaging, or theres a problem with the doors or the fan in the HVAC system. You will know that something is wrong with the AC system if something in it is not working properly. Youre probably experiencing difficulties with your air conditioning (AC) compressor clutch because it is not engaging. Or they charge it, then cant find a leak? Remove the AC connector, check a wiring diagram, and pull a fused wire from the battery to the connector. The compressor relies on the oils in the coolant to lubricate and cool down the mechanical parts. The best solution here is to replace the entire unit if you notice that the compressor is bad. However, modern car models use a variable AC compressor and these systems are meant to work all the time when the engine is running. Im Stephen and Ive been an auto mechanic for over a decade now. You can also examine this for noise and smell issues. You can do this in under 2 minutes with a test light. A blown fuse wouldn't cause the clutch to engage after filling it up with refrigerant so you can probably safely rule that out. This is called diagnosing and fixing the problem. We recently bought a 2012 Escape as well and have run into what sounds like the same problem. This pressure pushes the refrigerant through the rest of the system. Check the wiring to the clutch for any issues. Jiffy Lube Vs. Valvoline Oil Change: Differences & Which Is Better. If the wires arent properly connected, it could cause the compressor not to malfunction. rcmckee Here's my recommendation: Do the assembly work, if you bought the vacuum pump, use it in helping you determine if it's a tight system. Measure the voltage coming to the connector with a multimeter, and if everything is activated properly, you should see 12 to 14 volts coming to this wire. Ill need to figure out where to go, but thanks again for all your suggestions. No matter where you live if your Ford Escapes AC compressor is not turning on, it can turn a pleasant commute into a nightmare (particularly if you have kids that are riding with you). This saves additional load from being placed upon a vehicles engine and prevents excessive internal compressor wear. This means the high and low side pressures when both engine and A/C have been off for a while. With the clutch plate worn out, the clutch may not be able to engage. Turn the AC to high while looking at the serpentine belt for any issues. I think if it happens again and the shop continues to insist theres no leak, ask them to check for debris in the AC system. ), P2004 Code: IMRC Issue (Symptoms, Causes, and Fixes). Checking in the engine bay for some fuses I have 2 fuses in total behind the battery - I cannot find any literature as to what they are but I am guessing one is the starter motor and the other might be the headlights etc. The correct reading will display once the clutch engages and the gauge stops cycling. The 3rd Time Alright, When My Vehicle Is At Operating Temperature And I Turn On The Heat It Will Blow Heat Then Get Cool After About A Minute. . Started 12 hours ago, By Sometimes they can get a little stupid and leak profusely.). Started 2 hours ago, By This indicates some form of wiring problem. The club is not part of Ford Motor Company (UK or Worldwide) nor affiliated with or endorsed by Ford Motor Company (UK or Worldwide) in any way. Make sure that the clutch and the pulley is spinning simultaneously. Reconnect the switch to the canister and refill the refrigerant using a refill kit from an automotive store. See the FAQ in the AC section for the steps to adjust the clutch gap. Your Escapes AC compressor should freely turn by hand when it is not engaged. Stephen Interior Leave a comment 7,609 Views. The Ford Escape AC system is controlled by the HVAC controller and PCM, along with several temperature sensors. Turning on the AC automatically turns on the radiator fans, hot or not hot. Ensure that your engine is turned off when performing this inspection. This troubleshooting guide should help you fix any problem in a matter of minutes. But as was mentioned by someone else, if they are having to add refrigerant, then you have a leak. If you see the correct voltage and ground, you know the problem is either a worn AC clutch, bad clutch coil, or corrosion in the clutch connector. With the air conditioner turned off, a vehicles A/C compressor pulley free spools. Inspect with the Engine Off . Plenty enough to get it to engage. . The clutch is not getting a signal to turn on. It should spin only when the AC system is activated and functional. Get it Jan 26 - Feb 2. Get a click, we can start troublshooting wires. Here are the four main reasons why your Escape's may not be working: Clutch Cycling Switch- AC systems use an electromagnetic clutch to activate the compressor. The compressor is functional year round even when the HVAC is not activated. Car Maintenance, General Repair, Trouble Shooting, and Everything Car Related. Started February 6, 2020, By Perhaps someone can help get to bottom of this. Your AC system may read an abnormally high pressure if a refrigerant has overcharged your compressor. If the air conditioning isnt working, the problem could be the AC clutch. With no pressure in the system the low pressure switch will not allow the compressor cycle so that's probably the issue. Ask your Ford dealer. Royal Purple vs Mobil 1: Which Engine Oil is Better? Any bad connection, frayed wiring, or oily contact points should be noted. If the switch is not operating correctly, the AC system will not be pressurized correctly and will not work as efficiently in cooling the air. The AC compressor pulley is always being turned by either the serpentine belt or a dedicated belt (its going to depend on the model year and engine type). Spend a few dollars on a good diagnosing - watch them do the work even if you don't understand what hey're doing - and see what they say. You can jump-start the clutch to see if it will get moving manually. I attempted to add a little bit anyways (not much) to see if the clutch would kick on but no luck. Magnus is the owner and main author of Mechanicbase. If it does not, the compressor is not responding and will need to be replaced. back to AC / heater Complaints 271 Crash Tests 3 Lemon Law 7.6 pretty bad Typical. In other words, the system is low on refrigerant. Started December 2, 2020, By No leaks. Another possible cause could be leaks in the AC system. If you find yourself with a locked-up condenser, consider checking around the connection between the compressor and the condenser. You may check your ACs user manual for specifications. These include your Fuse, Coolant or Refrigerant, and Compressor Oil. Seems to be working. This gives power to the pump rotor that keeps the compressor running. What have you tried so far? May you find this article as helpful as we hoped it to be. -or-. . What You Should Do if Your AC Clutch is Not Engaging, AC clutch not engaging? January 2022 Jason, MAZDA6 shuts down while driving fuel pump not monitored, may be no engine light etc. Dave May The Best Torque Wrench Digital or Dial Type? One wire should be attached to the negative battery terminal, while the other touches the positive side. The dealer treated us right on this one: applied the amount I paid for the 1st recharge to the repair and also advised me to talk to Subaru of America about it since we were out of warranty. This car AC element helps blow the air to cool it down. 37 % of the time it's the. The AC relay (number 20) reads good voltage to the relay outlet. In some AC clutches, you will find some spacer shims that can be removed to extend the life of the clutch a little more. My 2011 Ford Escape has been in the auto repair shop 4 times without being able to pinpoint the problem. laumk7 But if the AC system is too low with refrigerant that it cant engage the compressor clutch, then a DIY kit may not be enough to recharge it. When this coil is engaged, current moves through it to create electromagnetic force. Started 12 hours ago, By Remove the electrical connector from the dryer/receiver and jumper the two connections inside the wiring harness side of the connector together: this allows the compressor to engage in spite of low pressure/no gas in the system. Started Tuesday at 03:15 PM, By If not on, the condenser will get too hot to work, and the a/c will shut down. (2012 - 2023) Ford Fusion Battery Sizes & Specs (2006 - 2023) Ford Ranger Battery Sizes & Specs (2000 - 2023) Get back to us with the before and after evacuation/recharge refrigerant weights.