The compressor on my 2001 Aztek does not engage. What steps do I take to check for problem?

Question

I recently added RED TEK Leak Stop and 1 can of A/C recharge.

Answer 1

What lead up to you adding to the A/C system?

  

   You can keep adding to the system with hopes that you will hit the magical pressure in your system to make it work but the BEST way is to get a set of air conditioning gauges and check the actual pressures in your system. Pressures will be some where around 200 PSI on the high side and 30 PSI on the low side with the system running and an even 100 PSI with the system not running. These pressures change from car to car and by outside temperature.

  

  To check for any pressure in your system you can depress the valve ( looks like a tire valve ) and see if you get any pressure out of the system. This is the valve on the low pressure side of the system, the same place you hooked up to recharge the system.

   Don't for get to check your fuses also.

I disagree with having to replace the AC compressor at this point. Need to do more troubleshooting before we jump to this conclusion.

Answer 2

Your first step would be to take it to someone that knows something about it. Second step would be to tell them that you put that leak stop in it. That leak stop c**p is destructive, expect a big repair bill. There are different types of sealers so the damage can vary.

Answer 3

Sorry to say but your compressor is shot.  You will have to replace it.  I would have told you to rebuild it but, since you put that recharge stuff in now you can't.  It have a foam additive in it.  Even if your compressor was good you wouldn't be able to get it charged by a pro.  Because you used a can and not the real thing.  Once you do the can a mechanic can't put his A/C machine on or it will ruin the machine. Your only choice is to replace it.  And yes it will be spendy.