Air Conditioner Not getting cool

[katz3d]

I have a 2000 Stratus. My a/c is blowing, but it is not getting cool. Does any one know what is wrong, and how I could fix it.

Thank you.

[BoatCop]

First make sure the compressor is working. With the hood up and the engine running, have someone turn the A/C on. You should hear a "click" and see the face of the compressor pully turning.

The compressor is located on the lower right side of the engine.

If it's turning, then you probably need a refigerant charge. Go down to the Auto Zone or other parts house and buy 2 (14 oz) cans of R 134A Freon, and a charging hose. Make sure one of the cans includes a system sealer, and the other contains a leak detector.

Follow the directions in the hose kit, and charge the system. The low side charging port is right on top, to the right of the engine. It will have a black plastic cap on the port. DO NOT try to charge on the port directly above the radiator. This is the high pressure side, and may cause the can to burst.

If the system maintains the charge and the cooling works, then you're done.

If, after a few days or weeks, it starts blowing warm again, take it to an A/C tech. Tell him that you put the leak detector dye in it, and he will be able to pinpoint the leak and fix it.