A/C System Inspection

Before troubleshooting any problem with the air conditioning system, do the following:

1. Check theat the HVAC air intake plenum at the base of the windshield is not blocked by leaves or debris, Remove any blockage.
2. Check for kinks or sharp bends in the A/C lines and hoses, which can greatly reduce system performance. Replace A/C lines and hoses if they are kinked or damaged (see A/C LINE REPLACEMENT ).
3. Inspect the A/C components, the pressure lines, and the hoses for stains that may indicate a refrigerant or aA/C compressor oil leak. If there is any indication of leaks, do the REFRIGERANT LEAK CHECK  to confirm the leak(s).
   Fig 1: Inspecting Hoses For Stains

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
4. Inspect the drive belt for physical damage or signs of slippage. Refer to DRIVE BELT INSPECTION . If the drive belt is damaged or shows signs of slippage, replace it and recheck.
5. Check the A/C condensor (A) for material clogging the fins (dirt, insects, ect.). If the A/C condensor is clogged or restricted, carefully clean any material from the A/C condensor fins with water and detergent. If deeper cleaning is required, clean the fins with HondaBrite cleaner (P/N 08732-0020B). Do not perform pressure test until the A/C condensor is completely dry.
   Fig 2: Identifying A/C Condenser

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
6. Check the A/C condensor for fin damage (bent Fins). If any of the A/C condensor fins are bent, try to comb them straight. Do the REFRIGERANT LEAK CHECK  to check for leaks if there is visible damage to the A/C condensor. If the A/C condensor is leaking or the fins cannot be straightened, replace the A/C condensor. Refer to A/C CONDENSER REPLACEMENT 
7. Check the dust and pollen filter, and replace it if it is clogged (see HVAC CONTROL UNIT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION ).
8. Check for HVAC DTCs using the HOW TO USE THE SELF-DIAGNOSTIC FUNCTION WITHOUT THE HDS . If there are any DTCs, go to CHECKING FOR DTCS .
9. Start the engine, turn the air conditioning system on, and allow it to run for a few minutes and reach stable operation.
10. Check that the A/C operates at each position of the fancontrol switch (except off). If the A/C does not operate at all fan control switch positions, refer to SYMPTOM TROUBLESHOOTING INDEX .
11. Check that the A/C compressor clutch pressure plate (A) is rotating at the same speed as the pulley and is engaging. If the A/C compressor clutch does not engage, go to A/C COMPRESSOR CLUTCH CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING .
    Fig 3: Identifying A/C Compressor Clutch And Cooling Fan

    Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
12. Check that the A/C condensor fan (B) and the radiator fan (C) operate when the A/C compressor clutch is engaged and blow air toward the engine compartment. If one or both of the fans is not working properly, refer to SYMPTOM TROUBLESHOOTING INDEX .
13. Check that the engine idle speed is correctly maintained when the A/C is switched on and off when the A/C compressor clutch is engaged, and disengaged. If the idle speed increases more than100rpm when the A/C compressor engages, confirm that the A/C compressor is the cause of the idle speed increase. Replace the compressor A/C COMPRESSOR REPLACEMENT  if necessary.