Chrysler Repair: 2001 Sebring A/C problem (expansion valve), sebring lxi, expansion valve

Question
Hi Roland,

I have the same make and model (2001 Sebring LXi) and have the exact same issue as this post.

http://en.allexperts.com/q/Chrysler-Repair-807/2001-Sebring-C-problem.htm

Every morn I get about 5 min worth of A/C and then just hot air.  I noticed this post is a few years old.  Do you have any updates?  I have not had my car worked on, is there a way to test the expansion valve or the other interlocking type of controls before I replace them?  

Also if I were to bring it to a shop what is a reasonable price for replacing an expansion valve? (for Labor, parts, and the evac/fill of A/C)  

Answer
Hi Eric,
There is one sensor, that  of the evaporator temperature sensor, which may be a cause. If you can get a fault code readout of the body controller to see if that code might be present then you could pursue checking out that sensor and its wiring. If you have a volt-ohm-milliamp meter you can do the evaluation even without knowing whether there is a code set or not. Let me know your email and I will copy and send that.
Other than that, because I don't speecialize in A/C, I can't suggest how to test the expansion valve other than by having an ac tech evaluate the symptoms. It is fortunately located in the engine compartment and can be easily changed out, but it does require collected the refrigeraant and then putting it back into the system.
I have no knowledge of costs. I would seek input from friends as to a reliable local A/C shop.
However there are many other possibilities for your symptoms so I would not try to 'direct' the service toward a pre-ordained cause. It could be something simple like a low charge level of refrigerant.
Roland