99 accord a/c problem

[nonenino]

Hello gurus, my 99 accord's(4 cyl. 5 speed,200k) a/c panel lights come on and go off intermittently, when the panel lights are not on, the a/c doesn't work. There doesn't seem to be a pattern as it can happen at any time. All fuses are good. Do I suspect the compressor is going bad? (maybe the 200k miles on it?) I appreciate any input!

George

[jeffcoslacker]

I would say it's more likely the panel control is failing...not uncommon in those old ones. They are pricey, if I remember right...try getting a salvage one to try if you can find one cheap...

[somick]

Originally Posted by jeffcoslacker

I would say it's more likely the panel control is failing...not uncommon in those old ones. They are pricey, if I remember right...try getting a salvage one to try if you can find one cheap...

Compressor is driven by a belt. Could it be just a stretched belt...

Sam

[nonenino]

Thanks Jeff, I took the a/c control/ radio panel out and checked the connectors, but still not turning on. I found a 01 manual control panel, with the same knobs and buttons, just a slightly different design of the a/c control panel on the front( is not recessed like the 98-99)l but the back connectors seem to be the same( the round and green connectors). I'm hoping is all the same so I'm going to give it a shot. I'll keep you posted.

Thanks for your help

nonenino

[jeffcoslacker]

Originally Posted by somick

Compressor is driven by a belt. Could it be just a stretched belt...

Sam

Even if the belt slips, the compressor clutch is still engaged...the A/C control panel would not indicate it...

[somick]

Originally Posted by jeffcoslacker

Even if the belt slips, the compressor clutch is still engaged...the A/C control panel would not indicate it...

I did not know that. On my Subaru they have a sensor that shuts down the compressor once it there is a belt slippage.

Sam

[jeffcoslacker]

Originally Posted by somick

I did not know that. On my Subaru they have a sensor that shuts down the compressor once it there is a belt slippage.

Sam

that may be...I'd think it was more likely the belt was slipping from overpressure, and the high pressure limit switch was cutting the compressor...but they have so many different safeties on cars now who knows?