A/C problem

hubabuba · 06-10-2008, 08:57 PM

I recently purchased a 2001 Rio. The A/C is ice cold. The problem is that the compressor runs when not called for. Like in the heat or defrost mode. The green indicator light comes on as well in these modes. The car seems to be running rough in low end situations when more torque is called for. It will sputter or miss when accelerating.The compressor will shut off in the vent mode when the A/C button is not engaged. The check engine light came on yesterday but has not came on today. Car still is running rough. Is there maybe a sensor issue going on here? I'm not so sure that an engine swap might have taken place before I purchased the vehicle and the wiring might be wrong? Any thoughts anyone?

hubabuba · 06-10-2008, 09:07 PM

I recently purchased a 2001 Rio. The A/C is ice cold. The problem is that the compressor runs when not called for. Like in the heat or defrost mode. The green indicator light comes on as well in these modes. The car seems to be running rough in low end situations when more torque is called for. It will sputter or miss when accelerating.The compressor will shut off in the vent mode when the A/C button is not engaged. The check engine light came on yesterday but has not came on today. Car still is running rough. Is there maybe a sensor issue going on here? I'm not so sure that an engine swap might have taken place before I purchased the vehicle and the wiring might be wrong? Any thoughts anyone?

bludragon · 06-10-2008, 09:51 PM

Im not an expert but its normal that the ac drags pretty bad on these little engines especially as they get old, my two cars do until the revs get up to smooth out. The idle should boost though. The green light is part of defrost AC creates cool dry air that sucks humidity like a sponge.

It should not be on in heat mode when you pop the center button.

hubabuba · 06-11-2008, 03:04 PM

Thanks. I am scheduling an appointment right now to get it checked out as my wife is currently on the road with it and problem seems to be getting worse.

jcwit · 06-11-2008, 03:36 PM

Hope I'm not too late but the AC will run during defrost and defogging mode. The AC can be set so that it does not turn on however. Check your owners manual if available for how to do this.

Raven1210 · 06-12-2008, 05:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jcwit

Hope I'm not too late but the AC will run during defrost and defogging mode. The AC can be set so that it does not turn on however. Check your owners manual if available for how to do this.

This is 100% right

Tracy · 06-21-2008, 12:10 AM

I wouldn't swear to anything, but I don't think the 2001 models will let you change the A/C settings. I believe that came later.

If I actually HAD an owner's manual, I would tell you for sure.

JoeWag · 06-21-2008, 01:15 AM

My car would sputter and miss when accelerating - it was a bad spark plug. Might be worth changing all four yourself and seeing if that resolves the issue.

As others have said, the AC turns on in defrost because humidity will always clear up foggy windows faster than dry air.

jcwit · 06-21-2008, 03:49 AM

The A/C can be set to not go on during defrost, check owners manual.