RX - 2nd Gen (2004-2009) Discussion topics related to the 2004 -2009 RX330, RX350 and RX400H models

A/C cools very slowly in hot weather

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Old 04-27-18 | 11:19 PM
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WolfyLS460
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Default A/C cools very slowly in hot weather

I'm assuming the a/c system in my 400H is same as 330/350. My a/c started to loose its 'cool' a few weeks ago. In a hot car, I could turn the fan speed up high and still not feel much cold air even though the freon level is normal. Before I only needed to put the fan speed at low and it would be freezing cold almost immediately. What's going on? Could it be a leak somewhere?
Old 04-28-18 | 09:51 AM
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It could be that the freon (technically it is not freon, it is R134A) level is low. But you said that the level is normal. How did you determine that?
Old 04-28-18 | 09:54 AM
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I had the refrigerant recharged, thinking it would solve the problem.
Old 04-28-18 | 12:28 PM
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Originally Posted by WolfyLS460
I had the refrigerant recharged, thinking it would solve the problem.
Start the engine and turn on the AC set the ac control to as low as it will go, open the hood and listen for the compressor to kick on. You should be able to hear a click when the compressor is engaged. Are the radiator/condenser fans running? Is the compressor cycling on and off or is it running continuously?
Old 04-28-18 | 01:39 PM
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Hybrids do not have "compressor kick in". They have electric AC comp. No clutch.
You know, OP, after two hybrids and years at toyotanation, I know that hybrids have under performing AC system to start with. That was my observation in my 2012 HiHy. Crappy heat and crappy cooling. But I had tint added all through and used window visors to create air flow, so it helped. That said, I'd be suspiscious you either have obstruction, partial, somewhere in the system and it needs ot be cleaned and recharged, or blender doors do not work quite well, or electric comp is not performing.
Locate AC lines under the hood and check how cold are they. It should be freezing to hand in touch. Lukewarm - not so good.
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