Last Sunday my A/C was working just fine. Monday, it just blows warm air. The A/C Compressor is not coming on. I bought some refrigerant with the gauge thinking it was low. When connected to the low pressure port with the A/C on max, the gauge almost maxed out in the red like it has way too much. Any ideas why this is?

 

You connected to the service port with the car off?

 

My suggestion is to forego the band-aid fixes ... i.e. blindly assuming you need to recharge your system, let alone with a universal-fix product ... and properly diagnose the issue.

Your system has failed. Why? Simply pumping in more refrigerant doesn't fix the problem.

Your system needs to be properly evacuated, vacuumed and pressurized and assessed for leak(s).

Leaks being ruled out, then evaluate the system for other failed or faulty components.

If you can't or don't want to do this work yourself, take it to a reputable shop.

 

No, car is running with A/C on max. However, the A/C Compressor is not engaging. I'm supposing that the compressor has to be engaged or the gauge will show high pressure.

 

I would've said check your A/C relay but in the 7th gen's the relay is in the IPDM (Intelligent Power Distribution Module) and cannot be serviced. Do you hear the clutch engaging when you press your A/C switch? If you're willing to, you can check if there's power going to the compressor using a multi-meter. If there is then with the vehicle off, get a feeler gauge and test the air gap of the compressor clutch to magnet. It should be 0.3mm to 0.6mm. If it's out of spec you may have to tighten the clutch disc (center bolt 9 ft. lbs). Other than that, I agree with Turbobink and get it checked by a shop with a manifold gauge and test equipment so they can find out why / where the issue lies.

 

Thanks guys! I believe I will let someone take a look at it who has all the right tools.

 

Bad news! Bad compressor! More bad news! Quote of $1400 to do the job and if condenser needs replacing another $400 for that. How hard is it to do this job? I've replaced compressor on Mercury Cougar before, but not so sure I want to tackle this job.

 

Ouch! Would be nice if you did all your own work. I'm celebrating today as I just buttoned up my system and ran it for the first time today in my 5th gen 7th gen swap! ALL brand new components and fabricated line set. SO nice!

If you are mechanically inclined, compressor would not be a difficult job. It's easy to get to. Condenser on a 7th gen, I have no idea. Sage advice to replace condenser in tandem whenever a compressor goes, however. Good luck!

 

^^^ yep ... simply replacing parts isn’t too too bad if you’re equipped with the tools, the patience and the inclination.

A compressor failure typically brings with it the replacement or, at the very least, the cleaning/refurbishment of several other components as the likelihood of debris having migrated through the system is high.

If you decide to do any replacements yourself let us know as there are many here who can assist.

 

The encouragement is much appreciated! I'm sure I could do the job. It's finding the time to do it. I will keep everyone posted when/if I do the job myself.

 

The conclusion of a "bad compressor" might just be that the magnetic clutch coil has failed and will not engage the clutch.
Simply apply 12VDC to the clutch terminals and see if it pulls in.

If not, you could simply replace the clutch with the compressor in the car and be done.
Worst case - an entirely new compressor, but no contamination of the system would exist.

This would rule out the need for an extensive flush of the system, as well as replacing additional components such as the dryer, expansion valve or the condenser.

 

Is the compressor serviceable on 7th gen? Im not aware.. But good call if it is and knowing a failure did not occur is good info in that the system is not contaminated and a condenser replacement not necessary. Compressor replacement is easy, condenser is another story.

 

It is serviceable in the respect that the clutch assembly is replaceable without removing the compressor or discharging the refrigerant.

And, the compressor can certainly be replaced without any other components. If there is no mechanical failure that is.

 

Fantastic! Good to know. Wish the power steering pump was the same!