A/C compressor not kicking in

1994 BUICK LESABRE
125,000 MILES • 3.8L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
RILEYB1971
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Fuse good. Freon level good. Could it be A/C Clutch Relay Switch? If so where is that located on the car listed above?
Apr 25, 2020 at 3:30 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
KASEKENNY
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 18,907 POSTS
It could be the relay. However, when you say the pressure is good, what are the high and low side pressure just to confirm we are okay? If you are not using a gauge set then let's see if we can rent them from a parts store because we have to confirm this before we go much further.

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

I attached the location of the relay and its operation. Let me know and we can go from there. Thanks
Mar 22, 2021 at 6:16 AM
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
Good afternoon,

What is the high and low side pressures while the engine is off?

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

What are the pressures when the compressor kicks on, if possible?

I attached a wiring diagram for you to view. We need to do some checks. Do you have a test light to do some testing?

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

Roy
Mar 22, 2021 at 6:16 AM
Avatar
RILEYB1971
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
As power to compressor just won't kick in.
Mar 22, 2021 at 6:16 AM
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
If you have power to the compressor then the compressor itself is bad and needs to be replaced.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-air-conditioner-compressor

Roy
Mar 22, 2021 at 6:16 AM
Avatar
KASEKENNY
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 18,907 POSTS
So if you are saying that there is power at the compressor on the green wire as Roy shows then the compressor or at least coil is the issue. The relay, control module and wiring is all there to deliver voltage to the compressor when it needs to be engaged. If there is power there, then that is all working but the compressor is not.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-air-conditioner-compressor
Mar 22, 2021 at 6:16 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.