AC on 2000 Grand AM SE won't blow cold air. Coolant and charge are good, what next?

Question

I heard the compressor kick on but can't get any cool air. It was working fine when I parked it last year (needed tranny work). So, it sat idle for a year and now that it's running again I have no AC. It shows a charge, coolant level is fine. What could it be? I am not sure where to look next. Doesn't appear to have any loose wires. Thanks for any help offered.

Answer 1

One of the worst things you can to with an AC system is to let it sit. It is even recommended to run the AC periodicly during the winter. When not used the O rings dry out and allow refriderant leaks. Have your system serviced by a qualified shop and you should be cool again for less than $150.

Answer 2

It actually, might be your thermostat control for your heating and cooling controls.  If in the winter you find out you don't have heat either.

Answer 3

Your AC probably needs a new charge of freon gas, check your AC reservior with the engine running & AC kicked in.

Trace the line from the compressor to the reservior, it's a canister with a small glass window on top that shows tiny air bubbles rushing pass when you rev the engine, a steady bubble when idle is ok, no bubbles means no gas. While you're at it, check for leakages by dubbing soapy water along the line & joints...  a loose joint or nicked line will show bubbles coming up. Don't forget to check your compressor belt tension too.

You can recharge the freon DIY or get someone to do it, if you DIY, be very careful 'cos freon gas can give you a cold burn that'll blister you hand real bad & painful.

You'll need a freon gas refill kit & a can or two of freon gas to do the job, the procedure is pretty much like bleeding your brakes... fill it up, run it up, check your bubbles, bleed it until you see a steady bubble at idle (bleed point is after the glass window of the reservior, just tap the rev a bit to push out the air), then tighten up & continue to fill in the remaining gas. Usually a can of gas would be enough to get it done. Good luck!

Answer 4

Sounds like you need to get it serviced and new freon put in