Nissan Repair: 01 Nissan A/C works only on 4 sometimes, competent mechanic, power steering pump

Question
QUESTION: My ac has slowly started to go away, it would previously only operate on 4 sometimes it would blow cool air sometimes just the hot air from outside.  No air comes out at all when its set to 1, 2, or 3.  I took it to a 'mechanic' who said he ground wired the ac to work to the battery because I needed some kind of switch.  What kind I don't know because he couldn't even tell me.  Now I have a white wire permanently wired to the battery and the ac is constantly on even just blowing hot air.  Do I need a whole new unit? I don't know much about cars so your input would be greatly appreciated!

ANSWER: Hi Yvonne -

I would remove that white wire as it could damage the system in the long run.

The reason for the fan only working on high speed is because the resistor is probably blown. This is a small device that has a couple wires attached to it, and usually is found connected to the A/C duct, or on the firewall.

If the fan is blowing only hot air from outside (I am assuming you have the A/C ON and the settings at the coolest temp), Then there may be another problem with low refrigerant. I would take it to a competent mechanic and have the pressures checked. It may just need refilling.

Side note - when the refrigerant is low, then the computer automatically disables the A/C compressor so it doesn't damage the system. This is why I recommend removing that white wire. It is not good to "force" the A/C to work.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello again :) I wanted your opinion on what the mechanic told me it was. He said the low and high side hoses are leaking and causing the a/c not to work.  Does this sound right?  They also said the a/c compressor is bad and needs to be serviced, can it be serviced or would it need to be replaced?  Another problem they found is that the return hose is leaking from the oil and the power steering pump needs to be serviced, how serious a problem are these? Again, I know nothing about cars, so your opinion is valued.  I need to figure out if its worth fixing all this or just trade it in.  Thank you so much for your time!

Answer
Hi Yvonne -

If the A/C hoses are leaking, then it is safe to say that is the reason why it shuts off.

Power steering hose, usually leaks from the pressure side, not the return. The pump probably does not need servicing.

A/C compressor - can be serviced, however depends on the severity of the problem, could be even that white wire that was put there. The A/C (or any other component) should never be forced to work.

Is this the same mechanic that worked on your car the first time? If so, I would get a second opinion.

I would like to assist you as much as you can. If you need more questions answered, please email me at calvin@halekoa.com, I can get to you faster then.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin