A/C System Inspection: Inspection

NOTE:

For A/C system noise, go to the A/C System Noise Check .
With Climate Control: Check for climate control DTCs using the Self-Diagnostic Function. If there are any DTCs, go to the appropriate troubleshooting - Refer to: How to Troubleshoot the Body Electrical How to Troubleshoot the Climate Control System .

1. A/C System - Inspect

Before troubleshooting any problem with the A/C system, do the following to check if there is anything wrong with the A/C system. If any malfunctions are found while performing the checks, correct them referring to "Actions to take" in the table given below.

Inspection area	Check for	Actions to take
Fresh air intake for the HVAC unit (at the base of the windshield)	Leaves or debris blocking the air intake	Remove any blockage.
A/C lines and hoses	Kinks or sharp bends	Replace the A/C lines and hoses that are kinked or bent.
A/C components A/C lines and hoses	Stains at the components or joints that may indicate a refrigerant or an electric A/C compressor oil leak	Do the Refrigerant Leak Check to confirm the leak(s).
Drive belt	Signs of slippage Damage	Inspect the drive belt .
A/C condenser	Dirt in the fins, or material clogging the fins (dirt, insects, etc.)	Clean up. NOTE: Carefully clean any material from the A/C condenser fins with water and detergent. Do not perform pressure test until the condenser is completely dry.
	Fin damage, bent fins	Try to comb them straight. NOTE: If the fins cannot be straightened, replace the A/C condenser .
	Visible damage to the A/C condenser	Do the Refrigerant Leak Check to check for leaks. If the A/C condenser is leaking, replace the A/C condenser .
A/C compressor clutch armature plate engagement	Check that the A/C compressor clutch armature plate engages and is rotating at the same speed as the clutch pulley.	Do the A/C Compressor Clutch Circuit Troubleshooting . Do the A/C Compressor Clutch Check .
A/C condenser fan and radiator fan	Check that the A/C condenser fan and the radiator fan operate when the A/C compressor clutch is engaged and blow air toward the engine compartment.	Refer to the symptom troubleshooting - Refer to: Heating and A/C Systems Symptom Troubleshooting Index(Heating/Air Conditioning) Climate Control System Symptom Troubleshooting Index(Climate Control) . Do the fan motor test .
Dust and pollen filter	The dust and pollen filter is clogged or restricted	Replace the dust and pollen filter .