Air con pump not engaging

[hotspace]

Has anyone else had a problem with the air con pump? The ac light comes on but the pump doesn't engage. I've checked the fuse for it and it hasn't blown. Any ideas?

[gdh300]

First I'd suspect it's out of gas.

[hotspace]

Would that explain why the pump doesn't engage? Does it rely on pressure in system for it engage? I've bought a canister of gas, I'll give it a go if I can find the point to pump it in!

[gdh300]

It certainly did on one of my former (non-Lexus) cars. I tried re-gassing it myself with a canister, but to be honest I don't think it was man-enough and it needed doing again a few weeks later. More of a top-up than a full system charge, but worth a go!

A colleague of mine had his re-gassed yesterday by a bloke who came round with a van. He had all the kit you'd see in garage and it cost him £70.

[JamesIS220]

Yes, get it re gassed. I took it to a local garage and it took an hour and cost £45. I would think All AC systems have a low pressure switch which protects the compressor if there is a leak or through natural evaporation through hoses etc. Certainly see the low pressure switch on my IS and Volvo.

The pressure switch shuts the system down to prevent the compressor running with no gas, but more importantly no lubricating oil. Ie  it prevents the compressor seizing.

I have just bought an IS 220D and that needed a regas as cool but not cold. Thankfully everything else was ok and lovely and cold. I use it set at 17 degrees and on auto.

 My 1996 Volvo 940 needed a used compressor as leaking internally and a new condenser. I bought a used compressor on eBay for £35 and new Nissens condenser for £65.

AC is nice to have and great for demisting in the Winter. Use it in Weekly to keep the O ring seals lubricated.

James

[hotspace]

Thanks for the advice, I'll get it re gassed

[hotspace]

Just tried to re gas it and I've got a big leak somewhere 

[JamesIS220]

When my Volvo 940 had an AC diagnostic you could hear the leak and see the gas dripping out.  In my case condenser and compressor.  Follow all pipes and look at the AC condenser thoroughly and pump itself. If you find wetness or hear hissing try to find the leak. If you cant, an AC specialist can use a dye with the gas. Don't touch the gas and try not to breath it in. Use gloves.

Others may know common fail points, as I'm new to Lexus.

James