A/C problem

[rbarna]

50% of the time, with A/C on, generally when in warmer ambient temps the following occurs:

1) A/C does not produce cold air

2) weird noises that sound like brake noise when not holding pedal down at a stop on a hill, could be characterized as "mechanical straining sounds" or "groaning"

3) behavior of engine/clutch when starting from stop is not "normal" feeling

The other 50% of the time the A/C works fine and blows cold air.

Any ideas?

car is a 6 speed 2000 C4 coupe

Edited October 10, 2003 by rbarna

[Loren]

1. Sounds like a temp sensor is not working right (sometimes). Could be a loose connection or bad sensor.

2. Could be normal - a half held brake will make noise on almost any car.

3. What is "not normal"? Does it slip? Do you have to press the clutch to the floor? Does it engage too high? Can you be more specific?

[rbarna]

2) I wasn't clear, I was describing the sound of the A/C problem as sounding like a half-held brake

3) It's not the pedal feel... it's just that the car doesn't seem to respond the same to pedal input, such as not launching at same RPM (needing more RPM to launch) and also revving less freely.

Also, on my commute today I noticed a more pronounced vibration that occurs in the cabin with noise that sounds like it's coming from the front of the car, which seems improbabale... could be my mind playing tricks on me.

[Loren]

2. Ah... more like the fan motor then -- about two hours to get it out and replace it.

3. Have you bled the clutch (and brake fluid) lately? If you haven't changed the fluid this would be a good place to start. Air and water trapped in the hydraulic lines can cause very odd pedal sensations.

You didn't say how many miles on the car but I would still start with the fluid and also the pedal assembly may need greasing (both known problems).

If not either of those then it's likely time to suspect the clutch driven plate and throw out bearing.

[rbarna]

2) Interesting... Would it be the fan even if the air is blowing but it's just not cold? the fan seems to be strong and stable... it's just the A/C... eh?

3) I've only had the car for 2 weeks. bought it with 20k and porsche cert. i've booked an appointment with the dealer to look into it. i doubt they would bleed the hydralics for me on a hunch...

Thanks so much for the advice... i'll talk with the dealer and see what comes of things. at least it should be covered by cert or good will.