A/c hot

[KVY107]

I have a 2000 Chevy Malibu with 43,500 miles that I bought used 2 weeks ago from a dealer. During the test drive everything worked fine. Now with a little warmth I threw on the A/C and it blows hot. The blower works OK, I hear the compressor click on when I press the A/C switch. I tried both recirculate and the regular button and it still blows hot. I know the dealer will just recharge it and say it is a "maintenance" procedure and charge me for it. I am bringing the car to my mechanic for a "once over twice". What test can I have my mechanic to do to see if it does just need a charge or something more serious? Any ideas on what it could be?

[brcidd]

Oh, I guarantee you- it is low on refrigerant- any V-5 compressor over 8 years old and built before 2002 MY is prone to shaft seal leaks and compressor belly leaks- I reseal 2 or 3 a week, but I have the tools and ability to do it. Your dealer will "simply recharge it" but it will leak out in a couple of weeks probably. Tell them that you have a leak and it needs to be addressed, in this case a new compressor is most generally in order...