FixVault

A/C System Inspection

Before troubleshooting any problem with the air conditioning system, do the following:

  1. With the ignition switch in the LOCK (0), inspect the A/C components, pressure lines and hoses for stains that may indicate a refrigerant or a compressor oil leak.
    Fig 1: Identifying Leakage From Pressure Lines
    G05456463Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  2. Check the condenser for material clogging the fins or for damage to the fins:
    • Carefully clean any material from the condenser fins with water and detergent.
    • Be sure to dry the condenser completely.
    • Fig 2: Identifying Condenser
      G05456464Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  3. Inspect the drive belt (see DRIVE BELT INSPECTION AND ADJUSTMENT ).
  4. Make sure no material is blocking the airflow to the condenser.
  5. Check the dust and pollen filter, and replace it, if it is clogged (see DUST AND POLLEN FILTER REPLACEMENT ).
  6. Check the operation of the air mix door. Make sure the cable is adjusted properly (see AIR MIX CONTROL CABLE ADJUSTMENT ).
  7. Start the engine, turn the air conditioning system on, and allow it to normalize for a few minutes.
  8. Check that the A/C operates at each position of the blower fan switch (except OFF).
  9. Check that the compressor clutch is engaged. The pressure plate should be rotating at the same speed as the pulley.
  10. Check that the cooling fans operate when the compressor clutch is engaged.
  11. Check that the engine idle speed is correctly maintained when A/C is switched on and off when the compressor clutch is engaged and disengaged.
Fig 3: Identifying A/C Compressor Clutch, A/C Condenser Fan And Radiator Fan
G05456465Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.