air conditioning spits out heat

Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives

Hello,
I was recently passed down a 1998 Contour SE auto with one major problem. When i turn on the A/C it feels like the heater comes on instead. I do not think its a freon problem because it definately heater air coming out. Has anyone had this problem before or provide me any answers? Thanks in advance.

Originally posted by hadookn:
Hello,
I was recently passed down a 1998 Contour SE auto with one major problem. When i turn on the A/C it feels like the heater comes on instead. I do not think its a freon problem because it definately heater air coming out. Has anyone had this problem before or provide me any answers? Thanks in advance.

Pull the TEMP knob off and see if it's stripped. If so, try turning the temp control shaft with pliers to see if it moves properly.

If it does move properly either with the pliers or if the knob is okay, then there is a problem with the blend door, its actuator motor, or power to the circuit. If the blower motor is properly controlled, the fuse tot he circuit is okay.

Steve

Originally posted by hadookn:
Hello,
I was recently passed down a 1998 Contour SE auto with one major problem. When i turn on the A/C it feels like the heater comes on instead. I do not think its a freon problem because it definately heater air coming out. Has anyone had this problem before or provide me any answers? Thanks in advance.

its not the gas? Are you sure? When was the last time you had it charged? Try turning the knob to hot see if it gets warmer on you. If not, you need a refill.

Welcome, hadookn

Open the hood, start the car, let it idle and turn on the a/c. The fan(s) should start up and the compressor clutch will engage and spin, then the hose along the top of the radiator will chill, if there is enough R134. If R134 is low the clutch will go on and off a lot, every few seconds, or not at all.