Just bought my first HHR!...need help with the AC
#1
Just bought my first HHR!...need help with the AC
I cannot find the pressure switch for the AC. The pump will kick on and off very fast once the outside temp gets above 85°. I checked the pressure with one of those cheap gauges that come with the refill cans.
Since the pressure was fine but the pump didn't work right, I released pressure from the low side valve. The AC will now work, but doesn't get really cold due to the low fill I assume.
The local shop told me two things will cause the problems I'm having...over filled or a failed pressure switch. I can get the switch at the local dealer, but I can't locate it. Also, if I remove it, will I lose all the coolant in the system?
Thanks,
Mark
Since the pressure was fine but the pump didn't work right, I released pressure from the low side valve. The AC will now work, but doesn't get really cold due to the low fill I assume.
The local shop told me two things will cause the problems I'm having...over filled or a failed pressure switch. I can get the switch at the local dealer, but I can't locate it. Also, if I remove it, will I lose all the coolant in the system?
Thanks,
Mark
#2
to the forum Mark!
Here's a parts diagram of the A/C system on an '07 HHR, the Sensor you're looking for is #23 on the diagram, GM part number 22678731. And you may have to dump the system pressure if you remove the part, its best to have the part replaced by a good A/C shop rather than attempting the repair yourself....that's just asking for trouble.
Once the system is opened to the atmosphere, it needs to be put under a vacuum to evacuate any moisture and then be recharged with the proper amount of refrigerant and compressor lubricant. Failure to do so properly will result in catastrophic compressor failure or damage to the receiver/dryer, which will just cost you more money in the end.
Here's a parts diagram of the A/C system on an '07 HHR, the Sensor you're looking for is #23 on the diagram, GM part number 22678731. And you may have to dump the system pressure if you remove the part, its best to have the part replaced by a good A/C shop rather than attempting the repair yourself....that's just asking for trouble.
Once the system is opened to the atmosphere, it needs to be put under a vacuum to evacuate any moisture and then be recharged with the proper amount of refrigerant and compressor lubricant. Failure to do so properly will result in catastrophic compressor failure or damage to the receiver/dryer, which will just cost you more money in the end.
Last edited by 843de; 05-28-2012 at 06:39 PM. Reason: Re-thought the problem thanks to firemangeorge's insight.
#3
Ok Mike, doesn't that pressure switch have a schrader(sp?) valve(or a valve like a tire valve stem)? In other words when you unscrew the pressure switch,you don't loose freon because of the valve.
I know other automotive systems are designed that way. Just figured that the HHR system would have that valve also.
I know other automotive systems are designed that way. Just figured that the HHR system would have that valve also.
#4
It may have George, being away from my service manuals doesn't help me confirm that, but some GM systems I've worked on require dumping system pressure when you change out the pressure switch.
So I will edit my response to "may have to dump the system pressure", but I still think the OP is better off having the system serviced and recharged if necessary by a professional.
So I will edit my response to "may have to dump the system pressure", but I still think the OP is better off having the system serviced and recharged if necessary by a professional.
#6
I cannot find the pressure switch for the AC. The pump will kick on and off very fast once the outside temp gets above 85°. I checked the pressure with one of those cheap gauges that come with the refill cans.
Since the pressure was fine but the pump didn't work right, I released pressure from the low side valve. The AC will now work, but doesn't get really cold due to the low fill I assume.
The local shop told me two things will cause the problems I'm having...over filled or a failed pressure switch. I can get the switch at the local dealer, but I can't locate it. Also, if I remove it, will I lose all the coolant in the system?
Thanks,
Mark
Since the pressure was fine but the pump didn't work right, I released pressure from the low side valve. The AC will now work, but doesn't get really cold due to the low fill I assume.
The local shop told me two things will cause the problems I'm having...over filled or a failed pressure switch. I can get the switch at the local dealer, but I can't locate it. Also, if I remove it, will I lose all the coolant in the system?
Thanks,
Mark
Michelle, Chevrolet Customer Service
#8
Found a friend who has a good set of gauges...
And the pressure is where he said it should be.
Air is not really cold, so I may just go take it to a shop to have the system redone.
Overall, I really like this car. I hope it will last me a long time!
Thanks for all the help...I'm going to be using this forum
Air is not really cold, so I may just go take it to a shop to have the system redone.
Overall, I really like this car. I hope it will last me a long time!
Thanks for all the help...I'm going to be using this forum
#9
A mystery wrapped within' an enigma, it is ever thus with GM.