A/C Blows Only Hot Air (gradual problem)
 

Hi guys,

I've searched around the forum but I haven't found anyone with exactly this same problem, so I said I should give it a try, maybe one of you is familiar with the issue.

When I bought the car, 1 month ago, there were some problems with the A/C - it blew hot air, but after toying around a bit with it, off, on, high temp on auto, low temp, it would start blowing cool air.

I used it a bit and the air became gradually less cool and again, started working form time to time. Now it only blows hot air regardless of the speed of the fan, the temperature set, or whether it is on ECON or not. Even ECON air is quite hot, even at high speeds.

Now, I would imagine that there is no Freon left (pointing to a leak somewhere I guess) since the whole process was more or less gradual. However, I did read somewhere that if that would be the case, the ECON button should switch automatically regardless of the settings.

Any one had any experience with this? I don't own a VAG-COM and don't know anyone in the GTA that does, so I'll prolly have to go to a garage with it, but it would help if I am a bit informed.

Thanks a bunch!

Cheers,
Dan.

Re: A/C Blows Only Hot Air (gradual problem)
 

To really determine what is going on you need to get it diagnosed by an automotive refrigeration mechanic. Once they hook up the gauges they will be able to see if one you have enough refrigerant or if there are other problems like the compressor.

Keep in mind that if you don't have enough refrigerant you have a leak and that needs to be repaired.

Re: A/C Blows Only Hot Air (gradual problem)
 

I guessed that much... I'll try to schedule an appointment with IT. Any price range I should be expecting if it's just a leak vs compressor ?

Re: A/C Blows Only Hot Air (gradual problem)
 

The A/C diagnostic should be around the $50 mark. If it is a leak it usually is at a fitting where the O-ring has deteriorated and that should be an inexpensive fix.

A car A/C is no different than a house A/C system. The problem with cars is that there is movement on all the components and over time could cause a leak. If its not the compressor it usually is not a big deal or an expensive fix.

Good luck and keep us posted

Re: A/C Blows Only Hot Air (gradual problem)
 

Thanks a bunch. Will let you know! I have an appointment with mark at IT next week Wednesday. Hopefully they're as good as people say around here!

Re: A/C Blows Only Hot Air (gradual problem)
 

Hey there,

I'm noticing my 2007 A4 isn't blowing as cold as I'd wish - and a friend with a 2001 S4 that drove with me says my A/C should be blowing much colder. Can you share the contact info for "IT"?

Jay

Re: A/C Blows Only Hot Air (gradual problem)
 

Highly recommend IT. Mark at the shop ended up emptying the freon from the system - which was only 100ml instead of the usual 500ml. They refilled it at $140 for the whole thing and also changed my cabin filter.

So guys, the ECON light button doesn't always light up all the time if there is not enough freon in the system!

Jay, here is the contact information:

Independent Tuning - in Toronto: home - independent tuning | Audi Specialists

110 Crockford Blvd
Unit 3
Toronto, Ontario
M1R 3C3
Phone: (416) 285-4206 | (416) 628-1483

Re: A/C Blows Only Hot Air (gradual problem)
 

I hope they fixed the leak as well! Refrigeration systems are closed, and if you're down refrigerant, it's leaking from the system somewhere.