Air Conditioning System Checks

The warm weather season is here, so if they haven’t already, your customers will be turning on their vehicle’s air conditioning (A/C) and expecting a nice cold blast of air out of the dash vents. Even if the A/C is working fine, there are some components they can inspect and clean themselves on a regular basis. This may identify some potential problems and help to ensure that they get maximum A/C performance.

A/C CONDENSER

Inspect the front of the A/C condenser, located in front of the radiator (Figure 1), to see if the “cooling fins” of both components are free of any obstructions such 
as leaves, dirt or dead insects. Clean with a gentle water spray (not high pressure), as needed.

Chrysler Group LLC recommends against using aftermarket bug screens or fascia protectors on the front of Chrysler vehicles. The performance of the A/C and engine cooling systems could be compromised from the potential loss of airflow to the condenser and radiator. Mopar deflectors and front-end covers are designed not to restrict air flow.

AIR INLET PLENUM

The air inlet plenum opening (Figure 2) should be inspected periodically for evidence of debris. It’s typically located under the hood, on the passenger side of the vehicle, near the windshield. Leaf particles, tree matter and other debris small enough to pass through the cowl-opening screen may accumulate in the plenum assembly and restrict airflow. Furthermore, the closed environment can be a breeding ground for some types of molds. Keeping the area clean will ensure maximum airflow and will help prevent odors emitted by decaying plant matter from traveling inside the vehicle.

AUTO TENSION DRIVE BELT

To avoid burns, it is wise to perform this task when the vehicle is cool or has not been operated for some time. The Auto Tension Drive Belt (a.k.a. serpentine belt) should be free of any damage or deterioration. 
If the belt is too loose, the A/C compressor will not operate properly. Note the Auto Tension Drive Belt inspection/replacement intervals in the vehicle’s owner’s manual.

A/C COMPRESSOR

The A/C compressor (Figure 3) should be visually inspected if there is a problem with cooling performance. When the engine is off and has cooled down, inspect the top of the compressor for a loose electrical connection at the clutch field coil connector. While you’re there, check the compressor for loose mounting bolts, as this condition could create a vibration sound.

If the A/C compressor clutch does not engage when the engine is running with the A/C and blower activated, this may be an indication that the system is low on refrigerant (see Refrigerant Leaks). Another easy component to inspect is the A/C compressor clutch fuse (see Fuses).

Keep in mind, the compressor clutch may cycle (engage-disengage), depending upon the ambient temperature and humidity.

FUSES

Is there a lack of forced air distributing through the dash vents with the engine running and the A/C and blower activated? It could be a blown fuse. The fuse that completes the circuit for the blower motor is located in the interior fuse panel.

Perhaps the A/C compressor clutch is not activating with the engine running and the A/C and blower activated? Inspect the A/C compressor clutch fuse located in the engine compartment fuse panel (late models).

Refer to the owner’s manual for the correct fuse amperage and location. If a circuit continues to blow the correct fuse, then the fuse is not the problem.

REFRIGERANT LEAKS

Often a visual inspection, even without the aid of an electronic leak detector, may show evidence of a refrigerant leak. Oil seepage usually indicates a refrigerant leak, as the A/C compressor’s lubricating oil is combined with the refrigerant in the system. Look for a film of oil underneath A/C hose fittings and components (Figure 1 & 3). Moist dirt or dust will stick to oil, therefore, a dirty fitting or component may indicate a leak.

PROFESSIONAL REPAIRS & REFRIGERANT RECYCLING

The recommendations in this article are intended to offer solutions to some A/C problems that a 
visual inspection may identify. Chrysler Group LLC recommends that a certified technician service a Chrysler Group vehicle for any procedure that requires the adding or removal of refrigerant or the disconnecting of A/C hoses or lines. Furthermore, the repair facility should be equipped with refrigerant recycling and recovery equipment that meets the SAE standard J1991.