I have a 2002 civic and have never had any problems with the a/c (I bought the car new). But with the weather turning warmer, I turned on the a/c and it never got cold. The green light on the a/c button comes on, but it doesn't seem like the engine is losing any power. I used to notice the idle or acceleration change when I turned the a/c on, but now there is no change (and did I mention no cold air?!?)

I ran the self diagnostic as described in another thread on this forum (that was cool, by the way!) and it did not find any problems.

In general, I am resigned to take it to a mechanic, but I'm also the kind of guy that likes to do things myself (and if that means saving a few bucks, so be it). Anyone have any suggestions of things I could try myself to identify / correct this problem.

Help! The really hot weather is just around the corner. Thanks!

 

Find the pressure switch on the receiver/drier (left fender area). Unplug it and check if it is a closed circuit. If not, all the refrigerant has leaked out.

If the condenser fans start but the compressor doesn't, clutch gap may be too large.

 

Thanks for the tip! Pressure switch shows conductivity across the 2 leads. So this means my refrigererant level is good?

Fans come on when I turn on the A/C, but I'm not sure to tell if the compressor is running (apart from the failure to drain power, as mentioned).

I don't think I feel confident to work on the clutch. Looks like I'm off to the shop.

Thanks again!

 

You can tell if the compressor is running by looking at the big round clutch plate which is right next to the pulley but not quite touching it on the "front" of the unit (would be facing the outside of the car as it is mounted on the engine). The pulley spins all the time the engine is running of course, unless the belt is broken, which would be a reason for the A/C to not work. When the compressor is not engaged, the clutch plate sits still. When the compressor engages, the clutch plate is pulled so it touches the pulley and spins with it. There is a fairly loud click or clunk when the clutch pulls in.