Am I having my leg pulled?

[7omly]

I bought my Vectra last December and two weeks ago I wasn't impressed with the air con. I regassed it and enjoyed absolutely ice cold aircon at 1.7c. Today I switched it on and it's blowing air that's around 32c. I've checked under the bonnet and I can hear a click when the aircon is switched on. I don't know if that's the relay or the clutch. I have spoke to a local garage who have said it could be a 'micro leak' on the condenser. They've said these are common failures but are cheap (ish) but the fitting requires removing the front end of the car. Am I having my leg pulled or could there be another reason why it isn't working?

[paula9568]

they are not kidding,it is a common fault,front bumper off

[jaqubek]

And also you have posted in Insignia troubleshooting section. Post in vectra section to get more help

[7omly]

Sorry about that. Do I need to repost or can I move it over?
Thanks for the reply though.

[nikroc]

it really is an easy fix..not as complicated as you think..

[7omly]

It appears I have another thing to consider. The fans both small and large are failing to run when the air con is switched on. When I'm feeling a bit better (serious back pain after a really spectacular fall) I'll have to get the test meter out. Thanks to Plasma for moving the post over. Moral of the story is don't post when you're on good grade painkillers.

[7omly]

Well after an hour of trying to check my fans I have managed two things. 1: I've discovered the right side one (looking from the front) runs when fed directly from the battery (couldn't reach the left one but assume it's working too). 2: My arms are shredded due to lack of space. I'm now inclined to think the aircon isn't cold because the fans aren't running drawing away the heat. It could be the fan control unit but this is a PITA to get at. Has anyone successfully changed one of these without removing all of the front end of the car. It's ****** infuriating to be able to see the part in question but not be able to get to it. A mate has suggested the problem might be the fan relay but I'm not so sure. Are these a common problem? I need this fettled soon because our two weeks of milder weather (summer in the north) will be with us soon.

[plasma]

without stating the obvious have you checked via diagnostic means the pressure in the aircon system? I think if the aircon isnt running then theres no need for the fan to come in..

[keefy*2010]

I think i'm right ? if there aircon system is not at the right pressure or very low the clutch does not activate on the air-con pump, So if pressure has dropped through a leak then air-con pump will not kick in. ooh and yes it is a common fault that condenser gets hole in it. If you take to reputable re-gassing centre they will put ultra violet dye in and pressurise it leave for about 10-15 mins to see if pressure drops and use ultra-violet light to check all around the connections on condenser. Had mine done last year £55 all in

[plasma]

Yes you are correct Keith, and also pressure test is better than vacuum test..