2005 Volvo S40 cold then hot

MRICKS

MEMBER
2005 VOLVO S40

Air Conditioning problem
2005 Volvo S40 4 cyl Automatic 133000 miles

When I start my car is seems to take longer to begin feeling cool air from my airconditoner. Once it starts blowing cold, it will be very cold for about 10-15 mins max then it begins to blow warm air (feels like circulated air). I then have to turn it competely off wait for a few mintutes maybe around 5-8 mins then turn it back on before it will blow cold again. Then the process starts all over again. Each times it seems to blow cold for shorter period of time. We have added freon and that did not make any difference in the problem. Can you please tell me what might be causing this issue? It is almost as if something is getting to hot and shutting it down. It cuts off for the first time in the same area on my route home everyday which is within the first 15 mins of my drive almost as if it is a timer.

1 Reply

JIS001

MECHANIC
3,411 POSTS

By adding freon you may have already overfilled the A/C system. You need to have it drained out recharged to the proper amount. As far as why your compressor is cutting out? Most likely the compressor clutch is worn out. To verify, grab a feeler gage and get one that is 0.5mm. That is the maximun gap allowed. Put it inside to feel the gap. You should feel a little tight drag to it. Another way to check the clutch is with a test light or volt meter. Next time A/C quits, do not turn the A/C off or the car. Mke sure you have the protective cover off. Check for power at the A/C connector by unplugging it and probing with the test light or volt meter. If there is light or voltage you now know the clutch is bad. If no power then you will need to have a shop diagnose further to see what is going on.