So while driving with my A/C on I will hear a clicking noise coming from the lower console. I do feel the difference in power, which would tell me that it's the compressor turning on and off. But it doesn't stay on, but it does blow cold. I topped off my r134a this weekend and it still did it even though it did blow a little colder. Again, I feel the power loss/gain and it really make driving frustrating. Suggestions on what else it may be?
Check to make sure you are getting constant power to the compressor clutch. If you are the electro magnet is going out. You can replace just that part. If it is not check the freon level if it is low it can cause the compressor to turn on and off. Once it is low enough it will not come on at all.
Thanks! I'll check, but how do I go about doing that? Also, I'll see if I can get it in to my mechanic to check the freon level.
You can put a test light or meter on the wire. Check the freon level first. A quick way to check it would be to get a small can of R-134a that has a gage on it. start the car, turn the AC on and hook up the can and see if it is in the green arc on the gage. You can over fill a system so more is not always better. I don't know what the correct pressure is but usually if your within the full arc on the can you should be good. If it is low you have a leak. You can add some so you have cold air till you get it to a shop.
Went and had it looked at this morning and two things need to be taken care of: 1. about 1lb. low on freon and 2. the expansion valve needs to be replaced. $341.00 R/R and part. It's better than the compressor needing replacing, that's for sure. Heading to Palm Springs next Friday for the final day of MINI Takes the State and looking at the forecast it's going to be a hot one...110+. Not doing that without AC. Keeping my fingers crossed that that's all that needs to be done. Thanks for all your input!