Chrysler Repair: 97 Minivan: 4 Blinking Lights on AC Control Panel, small claims court, compressor clutch

Question
Roland,

I found and read the article and read your response about the 99 T&C where the 4 dash lights were blinking for 15 mins.  I have the same problem with my '97 T&C.  Here's what happened to mine...  Something got left plugged in to the power charger with the engine off, draining the battery to a low level where the car wouldn't start.  Battery was recharged to the point where it would start, but all four lights started blinking.  (rear defrost, air recirc, rear wiper, and intermittent rear wiper)

Wife took the van in a month or so ago and had some AC work done to try to find source for leak.  They said they found problem, repaired leak, and charged system.  Gave 6 month "warranty" work on repair.  Refrigerant has leaked to the point where compressor clutch won't engage anymore, hence no more cold air.  Shop now says problem is with the control head and wanted authorization to begin electical diagnostics.  Said control head "might be bad and the source of the problem" not the AC system.  (think they are trying to give us the shaft)

I told them to leave the van run for 15 mins and the lights will go out.  

Will try the procedure and let you know if the sequence to complete the diagnostic tests worked or not for this problem where all four lights are blinking, not just two.  (Didn't see a response as to whether or not problem was resolved)

Thank you so much for your time!

PT

Answer
Hi Phillp,
Yes, that self-diagnostic info Steve sent was useful (3/08/2006). I agree with your demanding that they look for another leak. Make them back up their warranty or demonstrate to you that the system is charged and that it still won't actuate the compressor. If they can't or won't do that then I would get the refrigerant level verified at another A.C. shop, then threaten to go to small claims court. if they won't honor the warranty on the earlier work.
Roland