Airconditioning Check

Hi all,
Elantra 2001. I have to get the airconditioning checked (my wife thinks
it is not effective!). Any ideas how i can check refrigent on my own or
I have to go to dealership or shall I go to other specialist
copmpanies.

What are the typical checks and balances required on Aircon system with
40K on car mileage.

Thanks
Deepak

 

There isn't any way to easily check the refrigerant yourself and it is
illegal to vent it to the atmosphere anyway so you need special equipment.

If you buy a service manual, it should give you the procedure to check
the temperature of the air at the dash outlets. This is the best way to
check if the system is working overall as it should be. It should be
able to maintain a specified temperature drop.


Matt

 

I think I've seen some do it yourself recharge kits that come with a
pressure gauge, might want to give that a try? though the cost might be up
near having it checked out professionally.

 

Why would you buy a recharge kit prior to troubleshooting the system to
see if it is working properly?

Matt

 

FWIW, I find the Elantra's A/C system to be too effective. If your
wife's A/C isn't blowing really frigid air, it needs service. A common
problem with the A/C system is that the position of the condensor
exposes it to damage from rocks and debris thrown up by other vehicles.
Many Elantra owners install plastic gutter screen or metal mesh behind
the grill to protect the condensor from damage (DIY instructions are
available at the Elantra Club Web site). You may have a hole in the
condensor if the A/C isn't working at all. If it's just weak, it's
likely that it's simply in need of a recharge.

 

Get a thermometer and stuff it in the center vent with the a/c on coldest
setting, fan speed full, and in recirc mode. 45 degrees F or below should
be fine. If it's a particularly hot day, you should lower the fan speed
and see if the temperature lowers significantly. In these cases, this
volume of very hot air is too much for the evaporator, and the lower speed
will give you an indicator of what the a/c is capable of once the interior
of the car cools.