Dave,

I'm not sure if my A/C is working. When I
switch it on it has no cooling effect at all on the air temperature. My mate says it is because it is winter !?!?

Also, my Rover (420 Executive) is fast approaching 36,000. Is this a major service or is 48,000 the biggie ?

David

The a/c on your car should produce chilled air to the interior of the car when the heat control dial is 'COLD', the little indicator light on the switch should glow (Blue) and the compressor clutch can be heard to engage with a loud sharp 'click'. The engine note will change as the load from the compressor is placed on the engine. The engine revs should rise a little, too.

The a/c system will cease to work if the exterior temperature is below a certain level [I cannot find any reference to this in the workshop info!]
I know it cuts out when the exterior temperature approaches freezing - the a/c clutch on my ZS doesn't work until the temperature rises.

Dave

Dave,

Apart from the A/C button glowing blue, none of the other signs occur. What are the possible faults and how much will it cost to fix ?

Possible causes are, most commonly, are a loss of system pressure. A/C systems require regular servicing (every 18/24 months or so) any problems can be identified early on - the pressure loss can range from natural gas loss through the system components or, worst case, a punctured condenser. (The condenser is the large radiator type thing in front of the engine radiator) It could even be a bad connection/blown fuse - look on the bright side huh?

A simple 15 minute healthcheck at a local A/C shop should identify the problem.
Whereabouts are you in the country? I could guide you to a local specialist.

Dave,

I live in Leigh, Gtr Manchester. Its about
13 miles from Manchester, and 8 miles from Wigan, Bolton or Warrington.

Would any Rover dealer be able to diagnose the problem ?

I would like to say yes, but not all dealers (not just MGR) have the skills and equipment to properly and efficiently diagnose a/c faults costing you, the consumer, more money!

Watch this space.. :err:

[Edited by Dr Dave on 14-01-2002 at 09:29 PM GMT]

Dave,

I discovered today that the fuse for the A/C fan had actually blown. I replaced the fuse but it had no effect.

I read in the Rover 400 handbook that the A/C will not operate if the outside temperature is 5C or below. So I'm hoping that when the temp rises (along with the new fuse) everything should be ok.

Fingers crossed !

David

Huh! They give you more info in the driver's handbook than in our technical reference library!:~(