A/C hisses and is not cold

CROSSEV

MEMBER
2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA
1.3L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
80,000 MILES

My A/C is not getting cold. I noticed the compressor was not engaging and added Freon. I did not add much since the gauge read full (in the green) prior to emptying the can. Thanks compressor now engages but seems to engage and disengage often. Additionally, I now hear a notable hissing sound when turning on the air.

Thursday, February 21st, 2019 AT 3:19 PM

1 Reply

KENW1

MECHANIC
213 POSTS

Thanks for visiting 2CarPros.

Requiring you ta add Freon and hissing are usually good indicators of a system leak. The short engagement of the compressor indicates the system is still a little low.

One of the best ways to find an AC refrigerant leak is with a UV dye and black light kit. Mist carts stores have the UV dye in a can with an adapter you just push on the low side port and hold for five to ten seconds. You'll then run the system for a day or so and use the black light and special glasses to find the leak.

Places to look are the compressor, all lines, inside fittings on the condenser if you can see it. Listening for the leak may also help. I do not recommend low cost refrigerant detectors, they give false positives too often.

Once found you'll need to replace what's leaking. Send us a picture and we can help.

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Friday, February 22nd, 2019 AT 2:04 PM