2019 tacoma AC

My AC lite goes on for only 15 sec or so when I press it. So no AC. I've checked fuses and see my compressor pully is turning with no noise. Havent been able to find a video on the next stage of diagnosis. Can anyone point me to one......or even know my issue? Thanks -Dan

 

Sounds like there’s a good chance it’s low on refrigerant if it’s short cycling, but if it’s low, it may very well have a leak. I’d get it to a good A/C tech and avoid the Can-O-cool at the local parts store.

 

Chew - I looked again and the AC light on the button only stays on for 4-5 seconds....does that still sound like low refrigerant to you?? Thanks

 

It is a good sign yes, but not definitive. You could have someone press the button while you look under the hood and see if kicks on,,, and probably back off with the light.

 

Sounds like the odds are high for low pressure.

 

OK thanks! Do I have that right..... that if the compressor kicks on it has to be low refrigerant?

 

No. If it kicks on then shuts off, as you describe, it's very likely being protected by the low pressure switch

 

Bill - thanks. Do you mean the low-pressure switch is shutting it off because (most likely)there is not enough refrigerant?

 

Yes

 

Thanks Bill. Its now 6 yrs old and 70K on the vehicle.....its not that unusual for the refrigerant to be down by now.....is it?

 

Refrigerant doesn't wear out and it's a sealed system. So if it's low, there is a leak that needs repair. It could be simple, could be complex.

Find an honest shop with the right tools and let them fix it.