Xsara AC failure

Hello, I'm having an issue with my 2005 Citroen Xsara (gasoline engine). The air conditioning has stopped working completely. It's not just weak; it doesn't switch on at all, and, as a result, it's not cooling at all. I've checked the fuses and the refrigerant level seems okay, but I suspect there may be a defect in one of the individual valves within the AC system, perhaps the pressure switch. The car has about 157k km on it. Any ideas where to start?

4 comment(s)

I had a similar problem with my old 2012 Opel Astra a few years back. The AC just quit, no warning. I also suspected refrigerant or the compressor. Have you listened for any unusual noises when you engage the AC, like a clicking or a grinding sound? In my case the AC efficiency was severely affected for a while before failing completely.

Thanks for the input. No unusual noises whatsoever, it just stopped. When your Astra had this problem, what exactly was the issue? Can you provide more details?

In my Opel, it turned out to be a faulty expansion valve. I also suspected a leak in the cooling system but I found no evidence of that. Honestly, without proper diagnostic tools, it's hard to pinpoint. I'd suggest taking it to a workshop with AC diagnostic equipment. Be prepared for a potentially pricey repair, given the age of the car.

Thanks for the advice! I took it to a local shop. They found the valves were indeed faulty. They replaced the affected components, and the AC is now working fine. The repair cost me around 1000€, but at least it's fixed.

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