A/C compressor not functioning

Tiny
BLESSING EWOBOR
  • MEMBER
  • 2006 LEXUS RX 350
  • V6
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 165,478 MILES
Hi, vehicle compressor is not responding. I have checked the fuses and relay they are in good condition. With the A/C switch at "on" position, the light on the A/C button will just be blinking and the compressor will not come up. Could you help me with A/C circuit diagram. What could be the cause for the blinking light on the button?
Wednesday, December 23rd, 2020 AT 3:54 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Hi,

First, for some reason, I am not seeing the RX350 in my manual. See pic 1 for what I'm seeing. However, I'll try my best to help.

First, are you certain that the system isn't low on refrigerant? If it is, the low-pressure switch will prevent the compressor from engaging. Have you checked for power to the compressor clutch when you turn the power on?

One other thing I would recommend is to have the can-bus system scanned for diagnostic trouble codes. CAN stands for controller area network. This is what ties together all the modules and computer in the vehicle. I feel confident there will be a code related to the HVAC system that will likely point us to the problem.

Here is a quick video showing how to scan the can bus:

https://youtu.be/InIlnsjOVFA

That would be where I would start to diagnose the issue.

Let me know if I have the correct year and model. Also, let me know if you have checked the system pressure or tried charging it.

Here is a link that reviews the most common causes of an AC system not working. Take a look through it and let me know if anything helps.

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

Let me know.

Joe
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Wednesday, December 23rd, 2020 AT 8:29 PM
Tiny
BLESSING EWOBOR
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The system doesn't have low refrigerant and no codes is found.
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Wednesday, December 23rd, 2020 AT 9:19 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Hi,

Can you check to see if there is power to the compressor clutch? All you need is a test light.

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

Also, are the year and model accurate?

Joe
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Wednesday, December 23rd, 2020 AT 11:59 PM
Tiny
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The year is correct, but the model is Lexus RX330. Sorry for the inconveniences.
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Thursday, December 24th, 2020 AT 9:44 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Okay, that helps. And no problem. Interestingly, they made a 350, so I was a bit confused. LOL Regardless, if you are certain the pressures are good, we need to start by testing the low-pressure switch. Here are the directions for testing. The attached pics correlate with the directions.

______________________________

2006 Lexus Truck RX 330 FWD V6-3.3L (3MZ-FE)
Component Tests and General Diagnostics
Vehicle Sensors and Switches Sensors and Switches - HVAC Refrigerant Pressure Sensor / Switch Testing and Inspection Component Tests and General Diagnostics
COMPONENT TESTS AND GENERAL DIAGNOSTICS
ON-VEHICLE INSPECTION

INSPECT A/C PRESSURE SWITCH

pic 1

a. Low and high pressure cut side:
Inspect pressure switch operation.
1. Set the manifold gauge.
2. Connect the positive (+) lead from the ohmmeter to terminal 4 and the negative (-) lead to terminal 1.
3. Check continuity between the terminals when refrigerant pressure is changed, as shown in the illustration.

If operation is not as specified, replace the liquid tube sub-assembly.

Pic 2

b. Middle pressure cut side:
Inspect pressure switch operation.
1. Set the manifold gauge.
2. Connect the positive (+) lead from the ohmmeter to terminal 2 and the negative (-) lead to terminal 3.
3. Check continuity between the terminals when refrigerant pressure is changed, as shown in the illustration.

If operation is not specified, replace the liquid tube sub-assembly A.

_________________________

Let me know if that helps. Also, if possible, let me know what the high and low pressures are.

Take care and Merry Christmas.

Joe
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Thursday, December 24th, 2020 AT 9:04 PM

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