A/C System Inspection: Inspection

How to use this manual .

NOTE:

For A/C system noises, go to the A/C System Noise Check .
Check for climate control DTCs using the Self-Diagnostic Function . If there are any DTCs, go to the appropriate troubleshooting .

A/C System - Inspect

Procedure/Specifications

Before troubleshooting any problem with the A/C system, do the following to check if there is anything wrong with the A/C system.

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 A/C compressor oil leak	Do the Refrigerant Leak Check to confirm the leak(s).
Drive belt	Signs of slippage Damage	Replace the drive belt - Refer to: Alternator Area(3.0L Engine) or Alternator Area(2.0L Engine) .
A/C condenser	Dirt in the fins, or material clogging the fins (dirt, insects, etc.)	Clean the fins. NOTE: Carefully clean any material from the A/C condenser fins with water and detergent. Do not perform system 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	Refer to the symptom troubleshooting . Do the A/C Compressor Clutch Check .
Radiator fan and A/C condenser fan	Check that the cooling fan operates when the A/C compressor clutch is engaged and blows air toward the engine compartment	Refer to the symptom troubleshooting .
Dust and pollen filter	The dust and pollen filter is clogged or restricted	Replace the dust and pollen filter .

Inspection Area	Check for	Actions to Take
Blower fan	Check that the A/C operates at each position of the fan control (except OFF). If the A/C does not operate at all fan control positions, refer to the symptom troubleshooting NOTE: Start the engine, turn the A/C system on, and allow it to run for a few minutes	Refer to the symptom troubleshooting .