Automotive Air Conditioning Information Forum (Archives)

paleotn on Fri July 08, 2011 7:38 PM

Year: 2006
Make: subaru
Model: forester
Ambient Temp: 60-90

Help! The ac in my Subaru has started turning itself off randomly - not related to ambient air temp, engine speed, etc. etc. The light stays on but the compressor will quit working. Then, after about 2-10 minutes, the compressor will kick back in and will work fine. It's been happening once or twice a day - sometimes I'll go for several days without problems. What should I tell my husband to check first? - This is a honey-do project
thanks!
lyn

JJM on Fri July 08, 2011 9:34 PM

Does the compressor run continuously and system cools good at highway speeds? If so, check the cooling fans, they might not be coming on and the HPCO is kicking the compressor off due to excessive discharge pressure.

The clutch could be weak, or the clutch gap too wide. If the compressor is not running, try CAREFULLY giving the clutch a whack with the end of a broom stick. If it engages, gap is too wide or clutch is weak.

Also check the compressor relay and LPCO (low pressure cut-off) switch.

Joe

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