A/C System Inspection

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

1. Check for collision damage or body shop work
2. Make sure the ignition switch is in LOCK (0), or the vehicle is in the OFF mode Inspect the A/C components, the pressure lines, and the hoses for stains that may indicate a refrigerant or a compressor oil leak
   Fig 1: Identifying Stains Areas

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
3. Check the A/C condenser for material clogging the fins or for damage to the fins
   • Carefully clean any material from the A/C condenser fins with water and detergent If deeper cleaning is required, clean the fins with Honda Brite cleaner (P/N 08732-0020B)
   • Be sure to dry the A/C condenser (A) completely
   • Refer to the refrigerant leak check (see REFRIGERANT LEAK CHECK ) to confirm leaks if there is visible damage to the A/C condenser
   Fig 2: Identifying A/C Condenser

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
4. Inspect the drive belt (see DRIVE BELT INSPECTION )
5. Make sure no material is blocking the airflow to the A/C condenser
6. Check the dust and pollen filter, and replace it if it is clogged (see DUST AND POLLEN FILTER REPLACEMENT )
7. Check for kinks or sharp bends in the A/C lines and hoses, which can greatly reduce system performance Replace A/C lines and hoses if they are kinked or damaged (see A/C LINE REPLACEMENT )
8. Start the engine, turn the air conditioning system on, and allow it to run for a few minutes and reach stable operation
9. Check that the A/C operates at each position of the blower fan switch (except OFF) If the A/C does not operate, refer to SYMPTOM TROUBLESHOOTING INDEX .
10. Check that the A/C compressor clutch (A) is engaged The pressure plate should be rotating at the same speed as the pulley If the pressure plate does not engage, or fails to disengage, refer to to SYMPTOM TROUBLESHOOTING INDEX .
    Fig 3: Identifying A/C Compressor Clutch And Cooling Fans

    Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
11. Check that the A/C condenser fan (B) and the radiator cooling fan (c) operate when the A/C compressor clutch is engaged and blow air into the engine compartment. If either fan fails to operate when the A/C compressor clutch is engaged, refer to to SYMPTOM TROUBLESHOOTING INDEX .
12. Check that the engine idle speed is correctly maintained when the A/C is switched on and off, and when the A/C compressor clutch is engaged and disengaged