A/C warms up at high speed?

STEVEN CHASE PALMER

MEMBER
2014 CHEVROLET EQUINOX
3.6L
6 CYL
AUTOMATIC
85,000 MILES

A thermometer at the cabin vent read 55 degrees after 15 minutes at speeds less than 35 mph. At 65 mph, the thermometer reads 75 degrees and up. At idle for 15 minutes, the temperature drops to 60.

I took it into the dealer after the first warm up incident. Reported the A/C was blowing at spec and system was showing no codes. Picked up car with no $ charge. Two weeks later had a repeat of the warmup. Returned to dealer with documentation of temperatures and speeds. I was told the condenser was "glowing green" (leaking). Most recent trip in town resulted in temperature of 59. The dealer recommended replacing the condenser.

Would the A/C lose temperature at high speed but cool off at idle or low speed if the problem was the condenser?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,758 POSTS

Hi,

If the condenser is leaking, it certainly can cause issues. First, there will be a loss of refrigerant (Freon) which will lead to a drop in function. Also, the condenser does play an important role in the system.

Inside the condenser, the refrigerant gas (freon) passes through a series of tubes and fins. As the outside air blows over these fins, the heat from the refrigerant is transferred to the outside air via the condenser fins. The refrigerant cools down and condenses back into a high-pressure liquid. If this isn't happening, you will not get cold air.

If it is leaking, chances are it does need to be replaced.

Let me know if that helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

joe