Air Conditioning - I have searched extensively for info.

Discuss any problems, warranty, repair, or replacement issues you are having with your Vibe & Matrix
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techren
Posts: 33
Joined: Mon Jul 07, 2003 11:50 pm

Air Conditioning - I have searched extensively for info.

Post by techren »

I have an 03 base vibe that is having a/c issues.When I press the a/c button the LED lights up then goes out unless I hold it in. If I hold it I can here the compressor engage and If I hold it long enough it starts to cool down.Here is a list of what I have done so far. Replaced M/G CLT relay. Had R134 level checked. Mechanic said that there is enough in there. Replaced the switch on the dash. Checked a/c fuse under the dash.I have read of using a jumper on the low pressure switch but it has 4 terminals and I'm not sure which to jump.The Vibe was out of commission for about 6 months last year due to a failed transmission. So it was parked all last summer.Anyone have an idea on whats wrong? I've looked through GenVibe as well as Matrixowners for similar issues to mine but have had no luck.Thanks
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joatmon
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Re: Air Conditioning - I have searched extensively for info. (techren)

Post by joatmon »

in my 2003 Vibe, when I press the AC button, it clicks in and stays in, press it again and it clicks and pops back out. I see you said you replaced the switch, but having to hold it in makes me ask, does yours not stay in when you press it? Does the AC come on and stay on if you switch the air direction to defrost?
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techren
Posts: 33
Joined: Mon Jul 07, 2003 11:50 pm

Re: Air Conditioning - I have searched extensively for info. (joatmon)

Post by techren »

No it does not stay in on either switch that I have. The recirc button does though. As far as the a/c coming on with the defrost. I just went out and tested the defrost and it sounds like the compressor is kicking in and the RPM's drop a little, as expected.I'm taking that as a good sign that nothing major is wrong. Do you think that would be a safe assumption?
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joatmon
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Re: Air Conditioning - I have searched extensively for info. (techren)

Post by joatmon »

sounds good if it runs when in defrost, that tends to rule out all the pressure and computer stuff, points back to the switch. Next time you're out for a drive, switch temp to cold, air to defrost, see if you get some good cold air blowingOdd though that your orignal switch could have the same malfunction as a new switch, Seems quite improbable. I don't see anything where some external control can unlatch the AC switch (like the way that going to defrost activates a cable to unlatch the recirc button).
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techren
Posts: 33
Joined: Mon Jul 07, 2003 11:50 pm

Re: Air Conditioning - I have searched extensively for info. (joatmon)

Post by techren »

Finally got it figured out. Turns out both of the switches I had were malfunctioning. Was able to do the repair myself with a couple resistors and capacitors. Soldering on that thing is tricky though. Had to be very careful to not melt the plastic!Thanks to Joatmon for the replies.
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