98 C240 Aircon - Doesn't feel like it is working

[tim odonoghue]

My a/c doesn't feel to be working.  Is there an environmental sensor which may be broken and may cut out the a/c below a certain temperature?

Looking for advice before a main dealer visit.

Thanks.

 

[Koolvin]

98 C240 Aircon

1st thing, do you have Climate control or traditional 2 sliders and 3 buttons?

 

[steveperry]

98 C240 Aircon

Hi Tim,

You could check ur local phone directory for independent a/c specialists too. Most people say check the gas level as a first thing to investigate.

S.

 

[tim odonoghue]

98 C240 Aircon

Quote: from Koolvin on 6:39 pm on May 14, 2002
1st thing, do you have Climate control or traditional 2 sliders and 3 buttons?

Just a/c (2 sliders, 3 buttons *and* 2 dials!-)

A symptom that I have noticed on occaision is that, without me adjusting any of the settings, it becomes more noisy, as if some other system (other than the fan) has switched itself on.  This then swithes off after a few minutes without any noticeable change in temperature.

 

[tim odonoghue]

98 C240 Aircon

Quote: from steveperry on 6:57 pm on May 14, 2002
You could check ur local phone directory for independent a/c specialists too. Most people say check the gas level as a first thing to investigate.

Thanks for this thought.  Is it usual for the gas to need to be topped up after ~4 years?

 

[fuzzer]

98 C240 Aircon

There is supposed to be some switch on and off , but thats just the clutch on the a/c compressor going on and off to keep the temp constant . My a/c is still good after 4 years . best to see an expert i think , i agree with steve.

 

[Anonymous]

98 C240 Aircon

Hi Tim

have you checked the AC pump (nearside front of the engine bay).  There's a little glass window in the top of it - have a look when the AC is running and check for bubbles.  If you see any then its got air in the system and/or needs re-gassing, or something along those lines.  

I came across a similar problem last year when test driving a C class and the mechanic told me to check the glass for bubbles.   Hopefully someone more qualified can confirm this precedure.

 

[Andy]

98 C240 Aircon

Hi Tim

Before you do any thing. Have the AC checked by a AC specialist or your local dealer. It is more than likely it will need recharging. If they have the same equipment as we do they will be able to accuately measure the amount of refrigerant still in the system. Thereby acertaining that if the refrigerant level is low. To check for leaks after refilling. Get them to fit a UV dye as this will help acertain where any leaks may be if in the engine bay or at a later date if the refrigerant should leak in a short amount of time.

Regards

Andy @ www.mercedesservicing.com