Aircon noise

[acattanach]

Hi all,

When I turn the aircon on (It works as expected) there's a noise from behind the dash, almost like a dry bearing noise? It isn't noticeable from the engine bay, so what's behind the dash as I assume the compressor etc would be on the engine side?

All functions work, but this "dry" noise is new!

[DMitch16]

Hi all,

When I turn the aircon on (It works as expected) there's a noise from behind the dash, almost like a dry bearing noise? It isn't noticeable from the engine bay, so what's behind the dash as I assume the compressor etc would be on the engine side?

All functions work, but this "dry" noise is new!

The blower unit itself is in the dash and an item with standard type bearings perhaps it has a dry / worn bearing?
There are several actuator motors for various flaps in the climatronic HVAC system, if you have such but they are much smaller so don't usually make the same familiar bearing noise if worn and would only do so for short periods of time when in use.

[acattanach]

The blower unit itself is in the dash and an item with standard type bearings perhaps it has a dry / worn bearing?
There are several actuator motors for various flaps in the climatronic HVAC system, if you have such but they are much smaller so don't usually make the same familiar bearing noise if worn and would only do so for short periods of time when in use.

Thanks, the noise only starts when Aircon is clicked, normal blowers/heater it's not there.

Do you think it's worth getting the motor out or is it unrelated?

[Crasher]

It could be low on gas

[acattanach]

It could be low on gas

It was indeed, Garage did a leak test and says it's the Condenser radiator.

Tempted to have a do myself, there seems to be many options from Euorparts etc, any recommendations on brands to buy/avoid?

And is it doable by an averagely skilled bloke?!

[Crasher]

Hmmm, yes the condensers can leak but it is more often the pressure switch, did they do a leak test with dye? It is a very feasible DIY job and the EIS range from ECP is fine as the genine 3C0 820 411 G is daft money at £601.25. The Mahle branded part from ECP is even cheap than EIS but they don't have such a good stock. We have used a lot of these and had no problems.

[acattanach]

Hmmm, yes the condensers can leak but it is more often the pressure switch, did they do a leak test with dye? It is a very feasible DIY job and the EIS range from ECP is fine as the genine 3C0 820 411 G is daft money at £601.25. The Mahle branded part from ECP is even cheap than EIS but they don't have such a good stock. We have used a lot of these and had no problems.

He said a leak test wit Nitrogen? Is it cheaper/easier to try the pressure switch??

[DMitch16]

Nitrogen is used as it is inert and does not contain water molecules, with moisture being the enemy of HVAC systems. As you have to empty the system for condenser replacement (replace the dryer too, which is a must) why not simply fit a new sensor while it's empty, I don't believe they are expensive. That's what I did when replacing my compressor, condenser (used the OE Behr version), dryer, pipe seals and aux belt a few years ago (DIY). Local AC shop discharged my system and refilled after the work for a one off payment of £50. Work was done over a weekend and refilled the following one