You switch on your Dodge Caravan's air conditioning in the middle of a heat wave and receive a blast of hot air in the face, or worse, no air at all. Your air conditioner can blow warm air for many reasons. Instead of an expensive visit to a mechanic, first try a few simple troubleshooting steps. You'll need an A/C gauge to help diagnose the problem.
Check all air conditioning switches and controls on the dashboard with the engine running. Feel for resistance or switches that are too loose. Make sure the air conditioning is switched on and not just the electric blower fan.
Check the fuses. Consult the schematic on the fuse box flap. Replace broken or burned out fuses.
Set the controls to the coldest setting and start the engine. Open the hood and wait for the compressor's magnetic clutch to engage and begin to turn. If it does not engage, the system could be low on refrigerant. Or there may be a leak in the compressor. Look for any refrigerant residue on the hoses and compressor.
Locate the heater hoses at the firewall and check if they are hot. One should be cooler than the other. If they are both warm to the touch, you could have a problem with the valve control.
Turn the engine off and attach an A/C gauge to check if the system has enough pressure. It should be between 50 pounds per square inch (psi) and 80 psi.
