external temperature, 2006 S40i/ac problem too

khacker · Post by **khacker** » 09 Jul 2008, 07:43

My 2006 S40i has 79,000 miles on it. I just got it and the ac works for a short period when first engaged, but then it gets warm. After turning it off for a while and then turning it back on, the same thing happens, runs cold for a little bit and then gets warm again. A mechanic where I purchased it said that it is not low on the freon or R134, I don't know which it is. Also, my external thermometer goes crazy. When it is HOT outside sometimes it will read negative degrees, but will slowly climb back up to the correct temp. sometimes and sometimes not. The ac seems to quit working most of the time when this happens, but not always. Could the two be connected? Could the ac be freezing up? Any suggestions?

alf28 · Post by **alf28** » 06 Aug 2008, 10:13

I have a 2005 S40 T5 which has almost the same problem. AC works fine for 15 minutes, then starts blowing hot air. If I turn off the AC and only run the fan for 5 minutes, I can switch back to AC and it will work for another 15 minutes and so on. Took it in for diagnosis and was told that the AC compressor clutch is overheating and I need to replace the AC compressor. They wanted $1700 to do it. Looks like they're $400 online, so I'm going to try to find someone to replace it for me.
My thermostat is working fine.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 06 Aug 2008, 19:53

Sounds like the clutch gap...do a search (fine feature of your browser in the "edit" button) and see if you find anything...this is fairly common on 850's and early x70 series Volvo's...might be the same issue and same fix for your car- actually really cheap and does not necessitate exchanging the entire compressor.