QuestionNigel, you are new since I last asked a question to this forum. Welcome! You join a list of very helpful volunteers.
A month ago, I purchased a 2002 Range Rover with <60K miles.
The AC Fault symbol has been showing on the HeVAC panel since we purchased.
Also, it is of both my wife and my opinion that the AC doesn't get very cold upon testing with our hand over the vent. It gets cold, but not as cold as our Disco's AC. We also own a '99 Disco and the AC gets very chilly, when we hold our hand up to the vent.
After much research and careful testing, I have made the following observations:
1. My first hypothesis was that a blend motor had failed. However, all of the directional ventilation buttons seem to work as indicated. Also, the recirculation button seems to do its job. Lastly, it seems as though both the driver and passenger side controls work properly.
2. The heating works very well.
3. The fault symbol is perpetually on.... even when the key is just in position 1.
Can you offer any further insight into this fault? I'm sure I can take it do a mechanic, or a dealer. However, I have been given a wide array of possibilities and quotes. I am not filled with confidence that I will not get ripped, somehow, through an upsell or similar act.
Thanks in advance!
AnswerHi Jonathan,
The test book symbol can indicate numerous things. The most common problems are blend flap motors, heater core temperature sensor, blower motors and compressor fault. I (or you) would need to have the fault codes read to narrow the list down.
You can check for burnt relays or burnt fuses in the engine compartment, which are the main causes of blower motor failures. You can also check that your fusebox is not cracked or melted anywhere, this can also cause A/C failures.
Any of the other problems are somewhat expensive, but if you know what the fault codes are, you can confirm that the diagnosis makes sense and you are not being ripped off.
