Aircon Overheat

[Jon Ward]

LS400 95 Jan

Have used the climate control rather extensively recently and after a recent long run the climate control /aircon system was obviously seriously overheating. First indication was squeaking/groaning which sounded like a suspension problem but was obviously coming from and linked to the engine compartment and engine block movement on braking/acceleration. The compartment and aircon unit area was very hot and this had obviously transferred to much of the front corner leftside of the vehicle and its various covers and components. Switching off the aircon and allowing the unit to cool resolved the noise problem and climate control still functions apparently normally when tried - no warning lights or indications otherwise. The heat build up is quite obviously beyond normal.

This is a problem but how severe? And what and where might be the best way of getting it sorted? Finally, should any problems have been picked up in the car's recent service diagnostics tests?

Thanks for any help or pointers!

Jon