This 2013 Mazda Axela came into the workshop with hot air blowing from the vents. The air conditioning was not cooling, and the compressor was not switching on.
Low refrigerant was only part of the problem
The first checks found some pressure remaining in the system. We recovered the refrigerant and found the amount was about half of what should have been there. After recharging the system, the compressor still would not switch on. There was more to investigate than the refrigerant level alone.
Following the electrical checks
We checked the compressor signal and relay activation, then tested the wiring between the relay and compressor. The wiring checked out. The compressor operated when activated for testing, but the fans did not come on. That was another clue to investigate rather than a reason to replace the compressor.
A fault-code check showed a persistent evaporator temperature sensor open-circuit fault that would not clear. We located the sensor beside the cabin filter housing and found it unplugged.
Reconnected, repaired and checked
We reconnected the sensor. A leaking service port was also found and rectified. With the system recharged and its operation checked, the air conditioning was working properly again and blowing cold.
Why diagnosis matters
This job was a useful reminder that low refrigerant and an electrical fault can be present at the same time. A compressor that is not switching on does not necessarily need replacing, and a recharge alone will not resolve every air-conditioning problem.
If your air conditioning is blowing warm air, tell us what you have noticed and when it started. Speedwell Tune and Service Centre is at 10 Sloper Avenue, Frankton, Hamilton.
Read about our air-conditioning assessments or request a booking online.
