A/C not cold...

[MoonieGT]

I had have my system recharged about 2 years ago... now it's blowing hot air again. Can I just go to Autozone and get a can of R134 to add? Should I be getting some with UV dye (I guess I have a leak somewhere?). And then go from there with the expensive repair?

Anywhere local to do A/C (e.g. TDR)? Rogue did the recharge, but that's a bit of hike for me...

Thanks

[OZMDD]

Problem with the vatozone recharge is you really have no good idea about how much 134 is in the system; it only measures pressure on one side. Yes, its a cheap/easy temporary fix, but it can potentially do more harm than good if its overfilled. Since you clearly have a leak somewhere, you'll eventually need to locate/fix it anyway, so this isn't an awful idea.

Most of the stuff they sell has the dye in it, so a small can w/ dye could be worth it to locate the leak, then take it in to a shop for a true fix. Then you have the system evacuated, tested, and refilled correctly.

[sammm]

lostlorin told me about the soapy water trick, but your system will have to have pressure in it. If you go around squirting the soapy water on the AC fittings, you should be able to find the leak.

Mine was actually leaking in one of the evaporator fittings (behind the glove box).

[POS Racing]

Also you can shorten the life of your A/C system if you use the "stop leaks" style stuff that Vatozone sells.

[MoonieGT]

Thanks for the input. I'm dreading fixing/replacing A/C components. It's one of the more expensive repairs for an otherwise cheap car...

[modernbeat]

...Anywhere local to do A/C (e.g. TDR)?...

I use McCain on Floyd Circle. They've done a number of cars for me, and usually cost less than I imagine it would be. (972) 669-0744

[redmenace]

I use McCain on Floyd Circle. They've done a number of cars for me, and usually cost less than I imagine it would be. (972) 669-0744

How are their prices for older (R-12) service?

[modernbeat]

How are their prices for older (R-12) service?

I don't know. Call them and ask.