C5 aircon questions

[faddy]

Question #2 of many on my newly acquired Mk1 C5......

Aircon is functioning, at least to the extent of demisting the windscreen, but struggling with summer temperatures. There's quite a distinct whine inside the cabin when aircon is on but under the bonnet I can't hear any change when it's switched on and off. Would the noise be the compressor or is there any other moving part like a fan specific to the aircon?

I've been in touch with the only previous owner of the car, who doesn't remember ever having the aircon serviced/regassed. Is it likely that it would still be working at all at 111k miles if it had never been regassed? Or could it have been done as part of a service without the owner knowing?

[DickieG]

The system could still be working ok at any mileage but as to whether it's working at full capacity is another matter, the chances are that the system has lost some gas and could do with a recharge. I've come across systems that are low on gas make what I'd personally describe as a groaning noise. Ultimately my advise is to get the system drained and re-gassed then you'll know where you stand.

[Harlequin]

I would look at changing the cabin filter (under the centre console, accessed by the passenger footwell panel) then keep an eye out on groupon (amoungst others ) for the cheap ATS deal or similar for aircon recharge. I paid £28 and mine aricon was similar, blew cool but not cold. Mine had 128g of gas, and they put 675g back in!

[Bandit12]

Defo sounds like low on gas as I had similar issues earlier this year. my local main dealer did regas for £45 same price as local independent garage. Changing pollen filter sounds like good advice too as they do get clogged. They can be a bit fiddly to fit but there's a very useful thread on this site with helpful pictures.