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A/C System Inspection

NOTE: For A/C system noise, go to the A/C SYSTEM NOISE CHECK .

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

  1. Check that the HVAC air intake plenum at the base of the windshield is not blocked by leaves or debris. Remove any blockage.
  2. 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  ).
  3. Inspect the A/C components, the pressure lines, and the hoses for stains that may indicate a refrigerant or an A/C compressor oil leak. If there is any indication of leaks, do the Refrigerant Leak Check to confirm the leak(s). Refer to REFRIGERANT LEAK CHECK  .
    Fig 1: Identifying A/C Hoses For Stains
    G05959793Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  4. Inspect the drive belt for physical damage or signs of slippage. If the drive belt is damaged or shows signs of slippage, replace it and recheck. (see DRIVE BELT INSPECTION ).
  5. Check the A/C condenser (A) for material clogging the fins (dirt, insects, etc.). If the A/C condenser is clogged or restricted, carefully clean any material from the A/C condenser fins with water and detergent. If deeper cleaning is required, clean the fins with HondaBrite cleaner (P/N 08732-0020B). Do not perform pressure test until the A/C condenser completely dry.
    Fig 2: Identifying A/C Condenser
    G05959794Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  6. Check the A/C condenser for fin damage (bent fins). If any of the A/C condenser fins are bent, try to comb them straight. Do the refrigerant leak check to check for leaks if there is visible damage to the A/C condenser, refer to REFRIGERANT LEAK CHECK  . If the A/C condenser is leaking or the fins cannot be straightened, replace the A/C condenser (see A/C CONDENSER REPLACEMENT ).
  7. Check the dust and pollen filter, and replace it if it is clogged (see DUST AND POLLEN FILTER 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 armature plate (A) is rotating at the same speed as the rotor pulley and is engaging. If the A/C compressor clutch is not engaging properly, go to A/C COMPRESSOR CLUTCH CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING .
    Fig 3: Identifying A/C Compressor Clutch, A/C Condenser Fan & Radiator Fan
    G05959795Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  11. Check that the A/C condenser fan (B) and the radiator fan (C) operate when the A/C compressor clutch is engaged and blow air toward the engine compartment. If one or both of the fans is not working properly, refer to SYMPTOM TROUBLESHOOTING INDEX .
  12. Check that the engine idle speed is correctly maintained when the A/C is switched on and off, (A/C compressor clutch is engaged and disengaged). If the idle speed increases more than 100 rpm when the A/C compressor engages, confirm that the A/C compressor is the cause of the idle speed increase. Replace the A/C compressor, if necessary.
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