Low Refrigerant A/C Off?

1998 CADILLAC DEVILLE

74,000 MILES • 4WD • AUTOMATIC

BLAKE BATSON

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I took my car in for inspection because the A/C per the dash isn’t working. Per inspection the compressor is leaking and so they wanted to replace this for $1,000.00. I tried doing a recharge on the A/C myself but now the compressor doesn’t even come back on. Is there something I’m maybe missing? It’s an older car so it has some oil leaks, but I just work with it. I figured the same would go for the A/C. Is there a reason the compressor is now simply not coming back on at all?

Thanks in advance.

Sep 3, 2022 at 7:11 AM

STRAILER

✓Experienced Mechanic
55,267 POSTS

Yep, so on this car you need to tell the HVAC system that the system is recharged by clearing the HVAC codes, here is how you do it.

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Clearing

Perform the following steps in order to clear the DTCs using the on-board diagnostic method:

1. Press one of the following combinations:
- For digital IPC, press OFF and WARMER.
- For analog IPC, press OFF and PASSENGER WARMER.
2. Press the LO (fan speed) button until ACM? appears.
3. Press the HI (fan speed) button until ACM CODES? appears.
4. Press the LO (fan speed) button until ACM CLEAR CODES? appears.
5. Press HI (fan speed) in order to clear the codes. ACM CODES CLEAR will appear.

Also, here is a video on how to recharge the system in case you need it:

https://youtu.be/4UjfQKvrB6Y

Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.

Sep 3, 2022 at 9:56 AM

BLAKE BATSON

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I was able to clear the code but didn’t really hear the air compressor kick on. The air felt a bit colder, but I’ll drive it a time or two and see if that helps. I now have a service engine soon light that was not on before. I just had the oil changed and the car inspected. Kinda strange. Other than them wanting to have the A/C compressor replaced they just wanted to flush fluid systems and replace the air filter. I declined the power steering and coolant flushes since I haven’t had any problems there. I replaced the air filter myself today as well.

I wonder why the Service Engine soon light came on once I cleared the A/C codes. I did notice a small wet spot after recharging the A/C system. I’m 95 percent sure it was refrigerant but that makes sense as they said the compressor was leaking.

Sep 3, 2022 at 12:13 PM

STRAILER

✓Experienced Mechanic
55,267 POSTS

It could be a pressure issue with the system, do you know what the high side reading is? Check out this guide to see if this helps. Also please start a new question for issues not pertaining to this subject.

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

And this guide can help as well.

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

Please run down these guides and report back.

Sep 5, 2022 at 2:02 AM

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.