Aircon not working

[caviarjim]

I have a 2006 gti and the aircon is not working. I had a chap out yesterday to re-gas the system but it was already full and he said that the refrigerant wasn't circulating, the pump is not engaging and the rad fans are not turning. I have read on the forum that the pressure switch can go and my question is this.

  If the pressure switch does go would this cause the whole system to shut down?

Also is there a way of testing the pressure switch to see if it is the culprit (I presume can be tested with VCDS but don't have access to one).

Finally is there a kindly forum member near Stockbridge, Hants that could do a fault code check if necessary.

Any help would be much appreciated.

[martin@gti.co.uk]

vcds will tell you.

Could be low pressure swich at fault.

[skard]

As above, measuring blocks will indicate what is stopping the compressor from engaging.

Have a peak down with a torch and see if the shear plate on the compressor pulley has sheared

[caviarjim]

Thanks for that. Will have a look this morning.

[Nodz]

Mine done this the weekend and need someone to scan it. First thoughts was the compressor/pump had died but seeing this has brought some hope it's not gonna be a mega expensive fix.

[caviarjim]

So  Degudodger came round at the weekend and put the VCDS on my car. He is 70% sure that it is the pressure valve. I have ordered one today and will have a go at fitting it this week. Hopefully this will cure the ill aircon!

[caviarjim]

I am hoping to swap my Air con sensor over this evening.  Is there anything that I need to watch out for or any tips a fellow member can share with me to make it easier. I have the new sensor, O ring and crow's foot spanner. Any advice would be greatfully received.

[Nodz]

How did it go?

[caviarjim]

Badly! Having real problems getting the electrical connector detached from the top of the sensor. My arms are to big to get a decent grip on it and I have ripped them to shreds! Going to try again tonight and I will let you know how I get on.

[caviarjim]

So I replaced the pressure switch and it doesn't seem to have fixed the problem. I have now reached the limit if my technical knowledge so looks like I will have to bite the bullet and take it to a dealer next week.

[skard]

With the engine off, see if the bolt in the middle of the pump pulley seems loose and report back

[pandahouse68]

Google :N280 valve

[caviarjim]

That's for the advice guys, will check the bolt in the morning. Will Also do some research on the N280 valve

[caviarjim]

 I have checked the bolt and it seems to be tight.

[skard]

Shear plate on the end is likely to be ok.

What you need is someone to put VCDS on your car and do some measuring blocks to see why the pump is not activating.