Dealgirl19

Any ideas in a fix for a dead a/c besides replacing the entire kit for $500? The compressor is getting fire and has freon. It just will not kick on. It's not locked down because you can turn it in the inside. Is there something smile that could fix the compressor without having to replace the whole unit?

knavekid

This could be as simple as a fuse or the compressor clutch. If the clutch is getting power but the compressor never turns on, the clutch needs replacing. This is cheaper than a new compressor.

Dealgirl19

Thanks! How do we test to see if the clutch is getting power?

knavekid

When the AC is turned on, the single pin cable to the compressor clutch should measure about 12V. If it does but the compressor is not turning (with the cable connected), the clutch is not working.

If you don't see 12V on this cable:

First, check 30A fuse #1 in the under-hood fuse box. This provides power to the relays that control the compressor clutch and the passenger side radiator fan.

If this fuse is good, remove the compressor clutch relay from the under-hood fuse box. The relay socket contacts are numbered as follows:

+------+
|....1...|
+------+
|....2...|
+------+
| 4 | 3 |
+------+

Try connecting relay socket contact #1 to contact #2 using a jumper. A paper clip will work, but be careful because contact #2 is 12V battery power. Contact #1 goes to the clutch. When you connect the #1 and #2 contacts, you should hear the clutch make a clicking sound. If it doesn't, the clutch could be bad. If it does, the relay could be bad or it is not being energized when the A/C is turned on.

All of this information is in chapter 21 of the RSX factory service manual.

Dealgirl19

Thanks so much for the clear instructions. We will try this asap. One question: what do you mean by "be careful contact #2 is 12v battery power". Do u mean it will shock me? How do I hook it up so it doesn't?

knavekid

12VDC is not a shock hazard, but because the jumper will be at a 12VDC potential compared to chassis ground, be careful not to touch it to any other metal on the car while you are doing it.