Air Conditioner not working properly?

2017 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
75,000 MILES • 1.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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VICTORIAWESTX
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Since the end of last summer my car’s A/C hasn’t been working right. Some days it might stay on for 10 minutes, then even though nothing has been changed, it will put out warm air for a few minutes. Somedays it changes back and forth multiple times, other days (typically the hottest days) it will be mostly hot air and the odd minute or two of cold.

I did take it to a shop, and he hooked it up to a machine to check the freon and gauges - he said that the level was perfect and said everything seems to be working fine, except it hits a point and then stops the system.

I’m at a loss because he didn’t think it was the compressor or electrical, and I don’t have the money to have someone spend hours with it just to find out what’s wrong. Any advice would be appreciated!
Jul 9, 2023 at 8:38 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
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Hi,

When he said it hits a point and stops working, did he elaborate on what the point was? When you are driving and this happens, have you noticed if the A/C compressor is no longer cycling on and off?

When it stops working, how long does it take until it starts working again? Do me a favor. Take a look at this link and let me know if you feel comfortable performing the checks. The Freon level/charging has already been done so you can skip that.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/comprehensive-guide-troubleshooting-intermittent-automotive-air-conditioner-problems

Let me know.

Joe
Jul 9, 2023 at 9:53 PM
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VICTORIAWESTX
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Hi!

Thanks for getting back to me. He didn’t say exactly, but he was watching the gauges and said something about them dropping before they should maybe? I honestly can’t remember if it was dropping before they should, or going higher than they should.

When I’m driving, I don’t hear a change, just feel it. However, when we had the car idling, I could hear the A/C cut in and out when it would cut off. It still blows air, and the A/C light stays on, but the air goes warm.

I don’t really feel like I can perform those checks, I don’t have anything I would need, but maybe I could ask my dad whenever I see him next.

Thank you!
Jul 10, 2023 at 1:17 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

First, you are very welcome. If possible, let me know if your father is able to perform the checks and what is found. I'm interested in knowing.

Also, let me know if I can help in any way.

Take care.,

joe
Jul 10, 2023 at 10:17 PM