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2003 Toyota Rav4 Repair Question


Topics covered: Clutch, Compressor clutch, Fuse.
Mileage: 90,000 miles.

Asked on April 4, 2011

'03 Toyota RAV4: A/C light on but compressor is not engaging

2003 RAV4 A/C light on but compressor is not engaging. What could be wrong?

When I press the A/C button, the light comes on steady. However, the compressor clutch does not engage, and obviously no cooling takes place.

I've checked the fuse in the fuse box under the hood, and no problem there. I'm not getting any trouble codes from the OBD II diagnostics.

Some of my research indicates a possible problem with the magnetic clutch relay, however I have not been able to find that relay's location in the car. It doesn't appear to be one of the ones in the fuse box under the hood.

Any help on the following would be appreciated...
1. Thoughts on why the compressor clutch isn't engaging?
2. Location of the magnetic clutch relay?
3. Any other troubleshooting or investigation tips?

Thanks.
Avatar Asked by redwoodrav

Answer

Replied on April 4, 2011

Start by checking the freon could be low/none at all-

Tiny Answered by rasmataz
68 questions asked
Replied on April 4, 2011

The a/c was working fine recently, so I don't believe it's a Freon problem. In addition, when I turn on the a/c, the compressor clutch doesn't engage and the compressor doesn't turn. I don't see how low Freon would keep the compressor from turning.

Tiny Response from redwoodrav
2 questions asked