Sometimes air conditioning problems in an automobile can be an easy fix, even for those of us who know nothing about cars. Before making a costly and time-consuming trip to the dealer or a mechanic, give troubleshooting the problem a shot.
Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to allow the air to cool. Adjust the climate controls. If they seem to work fine but do not effect the air then it is a simple blown fuse. If they do not feel right at all, then it is probably the control panel. If you cannot hear the normal blowing sound that accompanies the air conditioning, then it may be a broken blower motor or fan.
Replace a blown fuse quickly and easily. Find the fuse box in a VW Jetta behind a small rectangular trim panel on the passenger side directly in front of where a passenger would sit. Pull the blown fuse out with your fingers and replace it with one of equal amperage.
Disconnect the black negative battery cable before getting to the control panel. Remove the glovebox cover. Remove the center console next by unclipping the cover caps and removing the screws.
Pull out the ashtray insert. Slide the ashtray forward and pull out far enough until cigarette lighter connector can be pulled out too. Unbolt it. Pull out the center console upward over gear shift lever.
Unscrew and remove the glove box. Pull off the trim around the steering wheel, and the trim around the heat controls. Unscrew, unplug and remove the control panel.
Remove the lower trim footwell panel on the passenger's side to get to the blower motor. You will see the blower motor right away. Unscrew it and remove it.
