An Air Conditioning Question.....

[neebishis]

I have an 05 Vibe and an 05 Matrix...air conditioning seems to work well on both. However, they operate quite differently. When you turn on the air in the Vibe, the radiator cooling fan and the compressor start together and continue to run...non stop until you turn the air off. The Matrix cooling fan and compressor cycle continually....20 seconds on.....20 seconds off...over and over and over again. Which is correct??? To me, it would seem much easier on the system to run like the Vibe....that is continuously. The repeated starting and stopping of the Matrix should be harder on switches and the compressor clutch??? Any wisdom out there????.........and what do I do to correct the one that isn't right??

[djkeev]

I don't know the Matrix at all but that cycling seems to be indicative of a problem. First thought is a low charge of coolant gas in it.Could also be too much cooling gas (yeah, couldn't be simple could it?!?!)A bad Expansion valve could do itA blocked inline filter could do it(the above two may be caused by a bad compressor in which case a new receiver / dryer and a flush of the entire system of debris is in order as well as a new compressor)Additionally, if it has been charged without the moisture being drawn out to a vacuum of 29 inches by a vacuum pump as well and also DESTROY many of the components in the system with rust.You've really got to get a set of PROPER AC gauges hooked up to it to determine what the problems could be. Repairs are most likely going to be many $$'s so go prepared for it. A simple evacuation and recharge could cost close to $200 and that may NOT fix your problem but only show where the problem MIGHT be!Sorry but it may be time to cut out the Starbucks and start drinking DD for awhile!Then again, could be as simple as a defective pressure switch.If you don't know AC the solution may be elusive, Heck, I know AC and the solutions are sometimes elusive!!!Dave

[micbarric]

The Matrix, like other Toyotas, has Denso HVAC components.Vibes are built with Delphi HVAC systems, including Delphi CVC's (Compact Variable Compressor). CVC clutches don't cycle on and off. Instead, they regulate refrigerant flow by constantly changing their volume/capacity.Delphi Compact Variable CompressorsQuote »The CVC's continuous displacement feature results in smooth, continuous compressor operation without clutch cycling, improving dehumidification and fuel economy.

[neebishis]

djkeev and micbarric..............THANK YOU much for your responses!! This site rocks... even though we're dealing with orphans!! I had just assumed the systems were identical.....there I go..assuming again. I'm going to accept the Vibe operation as normal for a Vibe..........and, I'll be taking the Matrix in to have the gauges put on it and try to get a diagnosis from someone who hopefully knows as much as dikeev. Again, thank you gentlemen for your input....I really appreciate it!!Ken

[northvibe]

can anyone recommend a good ac pressure test gauge I can use at home?

[Daddio]

Most auto parts stores have inexpensive low-side gauges made to charge with the little cans of refrigerant. Without the can attached, they'll function as just the gauge as long as you don't push the charge lever. That will either release refrigerant or suck in air, depending on what the system is doing. 'Course if it the pressure is low enough to run a vacuum, the pressure switch should have shut it off. I saw a full gauge manifold at Auto Zone for about $80, but I don't recommend it for 'recreational' testing - better know yer stuff.

[Daddio]

Anyone know which model years use the Delphi CVC compressors? I have a 2004 and I sure heard a clutch engage, though I didn't hear it cycle, and I did see pressures regulate. I figured the metering device was simply doing its thing... (Tx valve or orifice plate/tube?) It may not be running quite right.

[micbarric]

Quote, originally posted by Daddio »Anyone know which model years use the Delphi CVC compressors?2003-2008 (Delphi part #CS20027)I noticed that the Delphi catalog does not list any parts for the 2009-2010 Vibes, so maybe they switched to Denso for those years.

[09vGT]

On my 09 you can hear it kick on and off.. It'll run about 5 seconds then off for several seconds..