A/C Takes 10 Minutes to Get Cold?

2009 LEXUS RX 350
204,000 MILES • 3.5L • AUTOMATIC
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BEETLEPUNK21
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  • 126 POSTS
Hello, I am having an issue with my air conditioner. It literally takes about 10 minutes for the air to start getting cold when it is coming out of the vents. I did hook up a gauge to it because I thought that maybe it was low on refrigerant, but the gauge read Like it had enough pressure and freon.
Jun 28, 2026 at 12:54 AM
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STRAILER
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Yep, it sounds like the compressor is going bad or you have a stuck expansion valve, but we need to know the high side pressure as well, please go over this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4EqdrBVb0sY

Here is a gauge set for $43.00

https://amzn.to/4v67Auu

Can you tell me if the radiator fan comes on when the engine is running and the A/C is on? Please go over this video and get back to me so I can help you fix it.
Jun 28, 2026 at 5:02 PM
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BEETLEPUNK21
  • MEMBER
  • 126 POSTS
Hello, thank you for getting back to me. Yes, the radiator fans do come on and function properly.

I will work on getting the high and low side pressures of the AC system and get back to you with that information. Thank you for your help!
Jun 28, 2026 at 8:01 PM
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STRAILER
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Sounds good, let me know how it goes :)
Jun 29, 2026 at 1:57 PM
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