The other day tried turning a/c on and didn't feel the compressor coming on. After conducting all the tests described in the fsm, decided to order a uv light and the whole backside of the compressor looks like a glow in the dark party (pic attached).

Appears to have leaked out from the control valve/solenoid. Has anyone run into this before? I assume i could try and source the valve, but what would trigger it to go kaboom like this to begin with? A/C was always blowing really cold before.

if I do go the route of replacing the compressor and drier, would i need to mess with the expansion valve? Appreciate any input.

P.S. FSM talks about performing an active auto test/IPDM self-test with Consult, but you can also trigger it manually. Turn the ignition to "on" then hit the door jamb button 10 times, turn the ignition off and then back to "on" again - you should hear a honk, and the car will go into the test mode where it will check your headlights, a/c clutch, and fans.

 

I got nothing for you on the A/C questions, but thanks for the self-test info! I continue to be amazed at all the self-test gyrations that can be done manually with these cars to reset things, diagnose things, etc. Cool beans!

 

no kidding. you can also test the function of various sensors and blend doors by starting the car and then holding the "off" button on your head unit. pretty sweet functionality that fsm walks you thru.

P.S. just realized i've opened the thread in the wrong section... could a Mod move it over to the general area or a more suitable sub-forum, please?

 

ended up replacing with an OEM compressor off ebay (looked exactly the same) along with the dryer. will keep updated if anything changes.

disassembled the old compressor, but couldn't see any clear indications of what failed. inside housing had a few marks of where it could've been touching a little, but inside was very clean otherwise.