Hey, I realize there is a slot of topics on the AC units in these cars, but none seem to directly address my issue. So i though I could describe my exact problem and maybe have a discussion.

I Start my car, its hot as heck outside, Turn on the AC and it works very well, both sides. Then after I drive around in town, stop and go, The AC system shuts off, the fan, the clutch, everything just turns off. I shut the AC off for 5 minutes and continue driving. Turn it back on and WHAM cold air again! if I am on a highway or on a road with no traffic at high speeds, the AC doesnt seem to have a problem and stays on.

I have Refilled the R134a so theres lots in there. It seems to me it is getting hot in the engine bay and faulting something somewhere. Maybe the solenoid? or a relay? any ideas for me to try before I go spend a silly amount of money at the dealership?

 

the system will stop working if overcharged or undercharged. Check the operating pressures.

Is better to have an AC shop evacuate the system and recharge with the right amount of refrigerant. leaks are detected and moisture is removed if present.

 

It seems whenever u drive the AC shuts down, so some problem would be there in the system that affects AC, so its better to go some shop to check it and to get the problem solved in few days....

 

Check the clutch compressor gap. If it is .030 thousands or more I bet it needs a reshim.

 

A new symptom is, that it works great on days that are not as hot, maybe 20-25 degrees (68-77F) but when the temp skyrockets into really warm temps is when the system cuts out. Its like it is just getting too hot in the engine bay and overloading something. I am not sure.