Lately I've noticed my AC taking a long time to get cool air circulating. After the compressor turns on, the air slowly gets cool and even then it doesn't get 'ice cold'.
Is this likely a sign of failing AC compressor or clutch, leak somewhere or just low refrigerant?

 

It's possible. Mine's a 2004 model and I had to refresh my system last year.
Before you start spending money on replacement parts, and stick it in one of the center vents with the fan on a lower speed setting.
The coldest you should expect the air coming out of the vents to get is about 40 degrees.

 

Check easy/cheap stuff first:

Clogged cabin filter
Crap blocking the top air duct
Belt slipping
Fans not coming on (both fans....)
Condenser clear and clean
Refrigerant at the right level

The refrigerant level is best done by a mechanic who has the right gauges to monitor the high and low pressure sides. You can attempt to use one of the kits from an auto parts store, which might get it close. But that method isn't for everyone. I've had good luck with them but it's often been a trial and error game where you have to add a little / let out a little refrigerant until the air is cold and the compressor isn't quickly cycling (which usually indicates refrigerant overcharge).

Scotty Kilmer is a goofy guy but he's pretty spot on here.

 

99% sure you are low on refrigerant. Do not just add it willy nilly. You need someone with knowledge of the AC systems and also relative humidity + temperature calculations to put the proper amount in. If you over fill, you will damage the compressor sooner than later.

 

like losiglow said about the cabin air filter, mine did the same exact thing you were describing and I checked the filter and it was clogged to hell. About blew my face off when I put a new one in and cranked the air full blast. Does it seem like the air is moving through the vents at a good speed? Or is it just pushing warmer air than normal?

 

Thanks for the replies. First thing I'll do is change out my cabin air filter. For all I know it's the original filter (currently at 145k miles).
My air is moving through at good speed. It just doesn't feel cold and requires cranking up to max to get adequate cooling on hot days.
I definitely won't attempt to work on the AC and have the refrigerant levels looked at by a professional.

I ordered this Cabin Air Filter:

 

Add the refrigerant too.

 

I had a similar issue last summer in my 2004 TL. Could hear the compressor turn on, but hardly got cold at all. Issue was low refrigerant due to leak in the schrader valve. Got that replaced and it was back to working great.

 

I cannot make a post yet, but hopefully someone is reading this. I’m having somewhat of the same issue. When I start my car it blows hot air sometimes for about 15 seconds other times 3-5 minutes then you hear the “click” the engine surges, rpm’s drop THEN the cold air kicks in and it gets real cold. I checked the refrigerant and it’s at the appropriate level. Tempted to take it to Acura for them to look at but they charge 220-300 for a diagnostic. Any advice? Also the surges have been getting worst the rpms would rev up to 1.-1.2k rpms then just drop like it’s about to stall, I have no idea what it could be.

 

Replace your a/c compressor relay and also do an idle relearn procedure