Nissan Repair: No AC, nissan quest, freon

Question
I just bought a 1999 Nissan Quest and the AC does not work. I had to replace the blower because it was dragging and causing the fuse card to blow. I checked the circuit fuse and its good. I notice that the clutch is not engaging on the compressor. Any ideas?

Answer
Hi Tony -

Chances are you are low on Freon - which probably means that there is a leak in the system, which in turn could be the reason for the sale of the car. Was it working when you bought it?

The clutch is engaged by a pressure switch in the A/C line. If there is no pressure, it does not engage the clutch, saving extensive damage.

I would first check if your purchase came with any kind of warranty on the A/C. If it was as is, then you will have to fix it yourself. Putting freon in now will probably give you a better picture of what is going on. Try that and see how long the charge lasts. While you are doing that, it might be wise to take it to an A/C shop and ask to detect for leaks.

If it has been down for a while, it could get costly, so keep me posted and I will try to guide you along -

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin