- 1). Open the fuse panel and look at the diagram on the panel door to find the fuse corresponding to the air conditioning system. The fuse panel will be on the driver's side, under the steering column to the left. Check to see if the fuse is damaged and replace it if necessary. Always replace fuses with others of the same amperage. If the fuse to the blower fan continues to blow, it could mean that the blower motor has malfunctioned.
- 2). Verify that all of the dials and switches connected to the A/C system on the dashboard are in good working order and are not stuck or broken.
- 3). Turn off the ignition and open the hood. Attach an air conditioning pressure gauge to the A/C system. The pressure should be within 50 to 80 pounds per square inch, or PSI. The A/C gauge has color-coded hoses; the blue color-coded hose has a connection that fits on the low-side service port, and the red hose has a connection that fits onto the high-side. Once the hoses are attached, the readings should be between 80 to 105 PSI.
- 4). Start the vehicle and turn the air conditioning to the coldest setting. While looking under the hood, have a friend turn the A/C on the highest setting. You should be able to see the A/C compressor clutch kick on and engage if it is operating properly. If this does not happen, it could mean that the system is low on refrigerant. Inspect the compressor and hoses connected to the A/C system for any leaks, which will appear as an oily residue. Check for any cracked or damaged drive belts on the compressor and verify that the belt is secure. If the belt is making a squealing noise, then it needs to be adjusted or replaced. If the compressor is noisy, this indicates that it is about to fail and should be replaced.
- 5). Open the hood and check the two heater hoses near the firewall. Normally, one will be a little cooler than the other. If they are both the same temperature, the valve control could be the problem.
- 6). Look for any obstructions in front of the condenser if the airflow seems weak. The condenser is located on the radiator core support. Remove any leaves or plastic that may have gotten stuck there, being careful not to damage the cooling fins.
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