A/C System Inspection

Before troubleshooting any problem with the air conditioning system, other than noise, 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). If any of the A/C lines and hoses are kinked or bent, replace them.
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 (see REFRIGERANT LEAK CHECK ) to confirm the leak(s).
   Fig 1: Checking Pressure Lines For Stains

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
4. Inspect the drive belt for physical damage (see CONNECTING PIPE REPLACEMENT ) or signs of slippage. If the drive belt is damaged or shows signs of slippage, replace it and recheck.
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 is completely dry.
   Fig 2: Identifying A/C Condenser

   Courtesy 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 (see REFRIGERANT LEAK CHECK ) to check for leaks if there is visible damage to the A/C condenser. If the A/C condenser is leaking or the fins cannot be straightened, replace the A/C condenser.
7. Check the dust and pollen filter. If the dust and pollen filter is clogged or restricted, replace it (see DUST AND POLLEN FILTER REPLACEMENT ).
8. Check for climate control DTCs using the Self-Diagnostic Function (see HOW TO USE THE SELF-DIAGNOSTIC FUNCTION WITHOUT THE HDS ). If there are any DTCs, go to the APPROPRIATE TROUBLESHOOTING .
9. Start the engine, turn the air conditioning system on, and allow it to run for a few minutes and reach stable operation.
10. Check that the A/C operates at each position of the fan control switch (except OFF). If the A/C does not operate at all fan control switch positions, refer to the SYMPTOM TROUBLESHOOTING .
11. Check that the A/C compressor clutch pressure plate (A) is rotating at the same speed as the rotor pulley and is engaging. If the A/C compressor clutch does not engage, go to A/C COMPRESSOR CLUTCH CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING .
    Fig 3: Identifying A/C Compressor Clutch Pressure Plate, A/C Condenser Fan And Radiator Fan

    Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
12. 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 the SYMPTOM TROUBLESHOOTING .
13. 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 (see A/C COMPRESSOR REPLACEMENT ), if necessary.