Not last summer but the summer before last I had to add a can of freon to my 98 Ford Contour SVT and it was cold all season. Last summer I had to add 2 cans and as the end of season approached I noticed that it wasn't as cold as it was earlier. But, it was close enough to the end of season that I just let it go. This summer, 2 cans of freon lasts less than 48 hours.

I'm a girl and leary of mechanics because I've been taken before. So I'd like to know any repair possibilities before going to a mechanic. I figured that way if I walked in and asked to have my a/c looked at "because there may be a problem with the x - y - z," maybe I wouldn't appear so vulnerable.

Recently, I purchased some software called AutoTech and it offered 2 choices for A/C Not Blowing Cold Air Anymore - #1 Steady Reduction Overtime" and #2 Sudden Reduction.

Under "Steady Reduction Overtime" it said -- "This problem is a good indication of a slow refrigerant leak from a hose or seal and/or clogged condenser."

Under "Sudden Reduction" it said -- "This problem generally suggests either a major refrigerant leak from a ruptured A/C hose or seal or a shorted out wire or switch in the A/C electrical system."

It went on to say: Although not as common as the above possibilities, the compressor could be the culprit. More specifically, the belt which drives the compressor could be slipping or even broken. Also, the compressor clutch may not be engaging.

And so I guess I just want to know the accuracy of AutoTech since obviously the problem began as a slow leak and has progressed to a sudden reduction leak. Also wondering if maybe one of the experts out there might could walk me through an investigation, possibly narrowing down the actual problem. Please keep in mind I virtually know nothing about cars. I should probably buy a manual, huh?

Thanks for your help and expertise,
Michelle

RichardBondMan

I am not a mechanic but have had my share of auto a/c issues in the last 40 yrs. My "guess" is that it's a slow leak of freon. But it's a guess. As to where the possible leak may be and how much to repair remain to be answered. Why not get a couple or three opinions from different mechanics ?

CaptainRich

It sounds like a seal or hose is seeping, and getting worse (the seal or hose is still deteriorating).

I recommend you take it to a dealer or qualified ASE certified A/C shop. Be upfront and ask about diag fees and ask for a written warranty. Some shops will charge little or nothing for diag because they're hoping you'll buy the recommended repair(s). Be sure you understand any fees before you hand over your keys. In some cases, any diag fees could be applied to the repair, even if the repair is done at a later date, say less than thirty days.

If you're at all uncomfortable with what they tell you, make them show you. I once saw one of my own service advisors give a very quick explanation on how A/C works to a young lady. I took less than five minutes. If after all this, you're still not sure, feel free to come back here and let us know. If you're seriously confused, PM me for direct advise. I promise I can help.

Lenovo

depending on what state and city you are in, I know of one mechanic whos reputation is so high, and many people, including myself, have reccomended him, for his honesty, for one, and his courtiousness, and friendly workers, as well as prices. Just so you dont have to sya what State and city you are in, I'll tell you this mechanic is in Johnson City, New York.