Toyota Repair: Toyota Tercel 1994 A/c, toyota tercel 1994, toyota tercel

Question
Dear Ted,

I'm planning to buy a second hand 1994 model Toyota Tercel 1.3 Liter, 4 cylinder car thats done 136,000 kms.

The only concern I have is with the quality of air conditioning, which after my test drive was found not comfortable in terms of cooling. I live in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and in this summer heat you will appreciate my need for a reasonably effective cooling system in this car.

The owner told me this ac runs as per the Tercel's factory specs which is that the compressor cuts-out after a certain time period, but the problem is the compressor cuts off much too early and much before it has actually cooled the car. Do you know how I can sort out this problem? The car looks a good buy otherwise.

Also let me know which are the other potential areas I should be wary of before buying this car.

Would appreciate your quick and expert advise.

Regards....Paul

Answer
This doesn't sound it's a normal condition, there is a potential serious problem with the A/C, it may be low on freon and there may be a leak in the system, the compressor could also be failing and may need replacement, ask the seller if you can take the car and have it checked by a repair shop that can diagnose a/c systems, otherwise I would recommend looking for another car to buy, this one could cost you some money for a/c repairs.