AC not cooling

PJS101975

MEMBER
2005 PONTIAC VIBE
64,000 MILES

Recently, the AC in my 2005 Pontiac Vibe failed to blow out cool air. In an attempt to troubleshoot, I did the following: 1: Verified that the AC compressor clutch was engaging when AC button depressed - OK 2: Checked 10 amp fuse (interior fuse box) - OK. 3: Checked system pressure using R134a recharge kit. - OK. I did not add any refrigerant because the gauge indicated that the system was ok in terms of pressure. 4: Replaced the cabin air filter, removed the blower motor and cleaned it out. Ensured that the hose from the blower motor to the unit was connected properly as well. Also, when the AC system is on, there is a hissing noise coming from inside the console. Probably didn't notice before.

Unfortunately, I do not have a gauge that can hook into the high pressure end of the system. Would it hurt to add a small amount of R134a to see if the problem is resolved?

Any ideas?

Thank you for your help in advance!

5 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,513 POSTS

Hello,

I would check the high side to give you a real idea how much the system has in it.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/re-charge-an-air-conditioner-system

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-air-conditioner-not-working-or-is-weak

If okay:

With the ac running grasp the larger of the two ac lines coming out of the firewall, if it is cold then it is not a problem with the refrigerant system but more or like a temperature air blend door problem which is common on those cars becasue the cable mount breaks and the door wont move.

Check out some diagrams (below)

Please let us know happens so it will help others.

Best, Ken

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Saturday, February 18th, 2017 AT 2:57 PM

CARLSBIZ

MEMBER
2 POSTS
2006 PONTIAC VIBE
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
60,000 MILES

My A/C compressor suddenly stopped working and wont come on. I find no fuses or relays. Are there any? What could it be?

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Monday, December 7th, 2020 AT 9:59 AM (Merged)

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

More then likely the Freon is low. When it is low the pressure drops and it shuts the compressor off to protect it.

Here are some guides on how to confirm this and fix it:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/re-charge-an-air-conditioner-system

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9IvBziFUSo

Once we know what the pressures are, we can go from there. If the pressure is okay, here is a guide that will take us through the next steps:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-air-conditioner-not-working-or-is-weak

Let us know what questions you have. Thanks

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Monday, December 7th, 2020 AT 9:59 AM (Merged)

VIBEDUDE27

MEMBER
1 POST
2005 PONTIAC VIBE
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
75,626 MILES

My a/c blows hot air until the engine gets hot and the radiator fan comes on then the a/c blows cold. If I then turn the a/c button off the a/c continues to run until I shut the car off. Any ideas of what this is?

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Monday, December 7th, 2020 AT 10:00 AM (Merged)

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

If the engine runs hot, the ac will not work properly. You need to address the motor first if it is overheating. If it is not, check the condenser for debris and clean it out so air can flow through without restriction.
I would also look at the ac switch for failure. It may work in the turn on but not on turning it off.
It sounds like you need help from a shop to verify and give you a bid.

Roy