Aircon Recharge Advice

[boristhespie]

My C5 HDi's climate control cools the air but doesn't really COOL the air when in hot climes so I was thinking about getting a recharge. Just wondering if this is a good idea or if recharge could blow the system as it is an 06 system? Should I just stick with the lame-ish cooling I have or can I go for it without worrying about breaking the system. Is this a stupid question?

[GiveMeABreak]

I'd recommend getting an A/C service. They will vacuum out the system, disinfect and clean it, test for leaks, then refill it to the correct amounts of refrigerant and oil, which should get it back to peak efficiency, barring any other problems. Some mobile services will come to you and do this at your home from £80 - depending where you are of course.

[boristhespie]

Thanks. I see recharges on Groupon but have been afraid to tinker in case what cooling I do have is lost. Thanks.

[boristhespie]

One thing I do have is the fact that only one side of the car allows a change in temperature. I fear the internal adjustable paddle may be broken. Seen many a video hacking at side of centre consul bur I don't know if I could do that.

[GiveMeABreak]

That's new information and changes things a little.

Your mate may well in that case have to consider a blocked heater matrix. Yes, the air mixing flaps may have a broken spindle and these are a royal pain to get to. However it can also be caused by a blockage and seeing as the car is 17+ years old, when was the coolant last drained / checked? If the matrix is gunked up that is likely going to cause cooling on one side only and may well be ineffective. Backflushing the matrix may be a way to check this out before then getting the coolant refilled and an A/C service.