Compressor clutch will not engage and horn only works intermittently

Tiny
CRYSTALKASHMERE
  • MEMBER
  • 2016 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
  • 1.4L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 130,000 MILES
Hello! Recently the A/C compressor started to only engage about 70% of the time, and we would have to hit the button on and off again to get it working. I made an appointment to have it looked at, but a few days before they could see me, we smelled a burning smell in the cabin and the A/C was no longer blowing cold air. That same day, after getting home I noticed my horn didn't sound when I clicked the lock button twice, but when tired it again it worked the second time. I opened the hood to see if the clutch was engaging when the A/C button was pressed (the light turns on) but it did not.

When I took it to the dealer the horn had started only working sporadically and still not clutch engaging, and they said I need a whole new compressor but can't seem to relate the horn issue in anyway. I asked about the relay and they kind of answered but didn't? I'd obviously like to try the small things before shelling out the money, and I'm not confident they feel the same way.

I tried to locate the fuse diagram, but it seems to be a myth. I cannot figure whether there is an A/C clutch relay and, if it does exist, where exactly it would be located. I think I narrowed it down to a 645 over the driver's side cabin fuse panel, but I'm not 100% sure.

Any help on things to check (and where they're located) before paying for the compressor replacement would be appreciated.
Friday, October 1st, 2021 AT 6:14 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
This is most likely not related but if it were, this could be a relay box issue.

I don't see that you have an AC clutch relay as you most likely just have it controlled by the climate module.

However, this is part of the J519 box if you have one so take a look below at this data.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

If this is relayed this box also has the horn relay in it so I would suggest we start with seeing if this relay is on your vehicle.

I doubt it is so if it is not, then they are most likely correct that the compressor needs to be replaced.

However, the next thing that needs to be checked is the pressure to make sure the compressor is able to come on.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/re-charge-an-air-conditioner-system

Please see the info below and let me know what questions you have.

Thanks
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Saturday, October 2nd, 2021 AT 3:58 PM

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