a/c erratic

hatpmv · Post by **hatpmv** » 30 Jun 2012, 06:20

wanted to post this in the ac forum, but it was locked and I am new here so bear with me

I have a 2003 Volvo s80, the a/c isn't cooling when stopped at a traffic light, it cycles like it's low on freon, but once moving above 45 mph it starts cooling, get on the freeway and ice cold, I am scratching my head, anyone know where do I start looking? thanks

greekbuckeye · Post by **greekbuckeye** » 02 Jul 2012, 21:08

I would recommend looking up issues with the compressor clutch. They have a habit of getting off center and not spinning. Somebody on this site has a good write up on a "bread clip fix" for this issue. Good luck.

Post by **yuckuJackD** » 05 Jul 2012, 17:00

Check out the battery voltage while the engine is on, and everithing is working (lights A/C audio and so on). If its less than 13.5V the A/C itself is OK.
Other thing to check - the freewheel alternator pulley. Yes the alternator's, not the a/c compressor's.
Why - A/C consumes alot of energy and CEM is monitoring that. When there is not enought voltage CEM stoppes the A/C, because by priority it's more important to get where you're traveling to than to be cool inside the car

So that there wil be enought electricity for the engine, brakes and airbags.
My suggestion: Bad/old battery and/or problems with charging system.

Of course the clutch could be the reason too. Why dont you read the DTC codes?

hatpmv · Post by **hatpmv** » 07 Jul 2012, 18:34

thanks, I will have alternator checked and battery, both are possibilities, since I just bought this car back in may. usually one thing I worry about is how old old the battery is, haven't checked it yet but will do, gives me somewhere to start thanks again