A/C Problem DTC code 11 - 2001 Civic EX. I just picked up a 2001 Civic EX. The A/C is not working.

Seems to hold a charge, the condensor fan is running when the A/C is switched on, but the compressor is not running. I did the DTC test from another post, (thanks RonJ) and it came up with code 11. When I put the mode selector in "floor" position it blows out the de-froster on the windshield!

The prior owner put a heater core in this car, says it was over heating. I don't care so much about the mode selector, but do want the a/c to work!

I suspect something was not re-assembled correctly.

What is my next step?

thanks,

Mark
Edit Report

 

Condenser fan working means that it wants to engage the compressor. Check if the compressor wire is getting voltage. If it is getting voltage, unplug compressor and measure resistance through it to ground. Should be 3 to 4 ohms. If open circuit, check the thermal protector and clutch coil. If resistance OK the clutch gap is probably too wide for it to pull in. It can be adjusted by taking the clutch plate off and removing shim washers.

If compressor is not getting voltage, check the relay by substituting with one of the other ones in the box. The compressor relay is in the underhood fuse box. I'm pretty sure that on these if the pressure switch is not satisfied, the condenser fan won't run. So it really has to be something close to the compressor.

(Do not jump the compressor to the battery with the engine running. That is likely to create a dangerous overpressure because the condenser fans won't know to start.)

 

Which relay in the under hood fuse box is for the a/c. And can I try to jumper, (connect both wires together) on the thermal switch?

 

Ok, no voltage at the single wire connector that leads to the compressor. Switched the relays in the under hood fuse box, ( there are 6 total that are the same, so made sure none ended up in the same position and everything is the same = just the a/c is not working)

Any idea what to check next?

 

Do both condenser fans run? If it's only one, the fuse may be blown.

 

Both fans are running

 

Putting in a new compressor, clutch, dryer and seal kit this week

 

Why?

Since there's no voltage at the compressor wire, a new compressor isn't going to engage either.

 

I paid the $29 for diagnostics at my local AC shop, Four Seasons, Madison heights MI, they said it was the clutch. Did the work last night and now the AC works! OverstockAuto $179 for Compressor w/ clutch, dryer and seal kit, shipped free, saved $500. My dad had the evacuation pump, so I think we did a clean job.

Thanks for the advice