Poor A/C performance - 2013 Nissan Altima 2.5L

Joined
Mar 2, 2004
Messages
4,391
Location
Kentucky
R-134A vehicle, complaint is that A/C performance is low/non-existent at idle but gets better (not great) as car is driven.

I confirmed this with a set of gauges and being in the car. Customer wanted me to add "freon" but I don't think it needs it. I'm know enough about A/C systems but far from an expert; so wondering if anyone has some input based on this information:

Compressor is engaged at all times A/C is commanded.
At idle initially gauges read 55PSI low / 138 high at idle

2500rpm = 52 low / 163 high

4000rpm = 50 low / 155 high

At the ambient temp / humidity we had during testing (80F / 80% respectively), I'd expect lower pressure on the low side, and much higher (in the realm of 200psi or greater) even at idle.

After testing, I measured at idle once again and got readings of 62 psi low / 130 high. My initial suspicion is the compressor.
 
How clean is the condenser. Any cabin air filter?
Great point. The condenser is clean as is the rest of the car. I hadn't thought of the cabin air filter, definitely something to check despite air vents blowing reasonably well.
 
Back
Top Bottom