AC problem 2000 VR6

[New2GasEfficiency]

Okay im new to foriegn cars, and even newer to this website, hopefully someone can help me out. I have a 2000 VR6 (previous camaro owner so that may explain my urge to spend 3000 extra on two more cylinders.) I have two problems. 1) when i first got the car (may 2005) i would turn on the A/C and it would have an unusual humming noise but the a/c didnt have a problem staying cold. The humming noise no longer exists but the air only blows cold when it wants. its not low on freon. my question is what in the world was the humming noise? and is my compressor going out? Question #2 Most cars have a little rubber button in all the door jams to tell the car that the door is open, Agree? well where the hell is that lil button for my car, there is an anoying beeping noise that lasts for about 5 minutes after i have started the car, and i would like it if i could have my interrior lights come on when i open my door but they have to all be turned off cause otherwise they are constantly on. Note: i know for a fact it is the drivers side that is causing the problem.

Thanks much for any help i may get, Robert

[veedubmechanic]

WIth the car off, spin the ac compressor clutch. If you can spin it with one or 2 fingers its time for a new comressor.

The door switch it actually integrated into the door latch assembly. IT can only be replaced as a whole unit at about 125.00-160.00.

[New2GasEfficiency]

thanks man, i havent had time to check the compressor cause i just read your message, i was pretty sure it was intergrated cause i checked the other side by hand with a screwdriver, i was just curious if i could actually fix it or have to buy a new part. thanks again for the help and i'll check the compressor when i get a chance and let you know if thats the problem.

[New2GasEfficiency]

[quote=veedubmechanic]WIth the car off, spin the ac compressor clutch. If you can spin it with one or 2 fingers its time for a new comressor.

I did what you suggested with the compressor, and it had no resistance I could spin it with my pinky finger, hopefully it is covered under the warranty. Just curious does that work with all cars?

[veedubmechanic]

Yea, as long as the system is full and topped off with refrigerant the a/c compressor clutch should not be able to be spun w/ your finger.

[staypositive2]

I have a '99 Jetta (new body style) and was experiencing the same problem. Discovered that the secondary condensor cooling fan (smaller fan on the right side) was defective. Replaced the cooling fan and everything was back to normal.