air conditioning light is flashing

My AC stopped working, and the light is blinking.

I'd like to try to diagnose the problem and if it's something simple, fix it myself. My wife's AC compressor died last week in her civic, and I really, really hope that I'm not in a similar situation. I'm trying to minimize the repair bills this month.

Thanks!

 

A light flashing is usually indicative of that crappy Delphi compressor pooping out. It's our reward for Toyota using GM's suppliers (kinda like our hvac blower motor).

When it's just a low pressure situation the light stays solid but the compressor clutch doesn't turn on.

 

Thanks for the reply.
How can I confirm that it's a compressor problem before taking it to the mechanic?

 

Check the a/c relay. They cost a pretty penny though.

 

AC relay 122 dollars canadian from Toyota. It's most likely the clutch, 550 dollars canadian from toyota...

Mine would engage then quickly disengage, activating the flashing light.

Watch the compressor and have someone push the AC button, it will be obvious if it is failing.

 

Mine is doing the same thing. If you press the button twice (off and back on) does it start working again? How about idling? Mine will work all day as long as its idling.

 

Mine is never working, idling or not.

 

head pressure or sensor or low charge is my guess if it pops on and off

 

before guessing on this part or that part, get a manifold gauge set or rent one from the local parts suppliers. (many of them rent specialty tools) You may simply have a low charge due to a leak. Find the problem first, THEN replace parts.

 

I've done that. It's fully charged. No leaks. So I don't know... And NO CODES!!

 

If you dont mind me asking, how did you verify it is fully charged? Do you remember your static pressures? Active pressures?


On a side note, post 1000 for me on this one! lol.

 

No. I don't know the pressures. I had it checked at a shop. And to be sure, they evacuated it and then refilled it and again checked for leaks. That's when they decided it was the evaporator and expansion valve (both of which were replaced last year). And that's why I want a second/third opinion.