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1997 Toyota Tacoma

Question: air conditioner doesn't work

Question

droogle, 3.4L V6, Saugerties, NY, July 14, 2010, 06:26
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 Rookie

The air conditioner in my tacoma stopped working and I don't know where to start diagnosing the problem. What approach should I take to test the system and find out where the problem in the ac system actually is? I am assuming that I need to get the freon recharged, but I really have no idea if that is the problem. The ac system seems to work fine, the controls all work, the ac light comes on when I push it, the fuse is good, all climate controls work, but no cold air comes out at all.... It did seem to have a rapid decline in cooling, then stopped blowing cold air all together. Not sure if this is a helpful clue, but it does not remove any moisture from the air either as my windows quickly fog if moisture is in the truck. Thanks!

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  • Answer #1

    Pvt-Public July 14, 2010, 13:42
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     Master

    A good place to start diagnosing is a shop. Regardless of what it says on those little cans of DYI refrigerant A/C work should be left to the professionals. It can be dangerous and requires special tools to be done right.

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    Visitor, July 14, 2010, 16:21

    Thanks for the info, but I used a can to recharge it and it was quick, easy and has my ac back in action. Not sure what a shop would charge, but the can cost me $14. Agreed that the freon is dangerous, but the quick connect coupler provided with the can, as well as safety glasses and gloves, made it safe enough for me to try. I'm a highly experienced mechanic, but have never worked on ac before today. If any leaking in the system is found from the dye contained in the freon can, I will take it to an ac shop as I will draw the safety line at recharging.

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    Pvt-Public, July 15, 2010, 13:07
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     Master

    I'm glad it worked for you. Most who post here don't understand that if it needs refrigerant it really need a shop to diagnose leaks and/or faulty parts, and then properly evacuate the system and recharge.

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