A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
06-18-2006, 10:40 PM
#2
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear where
your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC hoses)
are.
But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good of a
chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a leak.
Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most reputable
repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple (and fairly
inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But most
of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
Hope this helps.
Tom Wenndt
"sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>
auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear where
your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC hoses)
are.
But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good of a
chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a leak.
Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most reputable
repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple (and fairly
inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But most
of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
Hope this helps.
Tom Wenndt
"sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>
06-18-2006, 10:40 PM
#3
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear where
your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC hoses)
are.
But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good of a
chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a leak.
Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most reputable
repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple (and fairly
inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But most
of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
Hope this helps.
Tom Wenndt
"sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>
auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear where
your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC hoses)
are.
But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good of a
chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a leak.
Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most reputable
repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple (and fairly
inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But most
of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
Hope this helps.
Tom Wenndt
"sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>
06-18-2006, 10:40 PM
#4
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear where
your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC hoses)
are.
But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good of a
chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a leak.
Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most reputable
repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple (and fairly
inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But most
of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
Hope this helps.
Tom Wenndt
"sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>
auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear where
your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC hoses)
are.
But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good of a
chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a leak.
Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most reputable
repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple (and fairly
inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But most
of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
Hope this helps.
Tom Wenndt
"sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>
06-19-2006, 10:46 AM
#5
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
Thanks for your reply. So in other words, your saying that chances are I
have a leak because the a/c does not run as cold as it used too? That scares
me!! My last car was a nightmare. I bought a brand new 1992 cavalier. After
using the car for 10 months, the a/c was not cool anymore. Brought it to
Firestone to get it looked at. Was in the waiting room watching this
guy(creepy looking) put it up on a lift, took a crowbar type and started
banging something underneath the car. 10 minutes later, he came out to me
and said I have a hole in my condenser. The cost: 900.00 to replace it.
Being a college student, I had no money to fix it. I went 2 years with out
A/C. That summer of 1994 went to jiffy lube for an oil change. The guy ask
me if I wanted to charge my a/c. I told him that it had a hole in the
condenser. He said he will check it out. He came out to me and said that he
added the Freon and there was no leakage. I could not believe I had a/c!!!
That car today which has 489,500 miles on it still has a/c working. I gave
the car to my nephew!! That incident makes me very captious and it really
dampened my trust toward ANY mechanic..
"Rev. Tom Wenndt" <trwenndt@grics.net> wrote in message
news:e752su02ckk@enews4.newsguy.com...
> In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
> auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear where
> your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC hoses)
> are.
>
> But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
> somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good of
> a chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a
> leak.
>
> Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most
> reputable repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple
> (and fairly inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
>
> What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But
> most of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Tom Wenndt
>
>
> "sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
> news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>>
>
>
have a leak because the a/c does not run as cold as it used too? That scares
me!! My last car was a nightmare. I bought a brand new 1992 cavalier. After
using the car for 10 months, the a/c was not cool anymore. Brought it to
Firestone to get it looked at. Was in the waiting room watching this
guy(creepy looking) put it up on a lift, took a crowbar type and started
banging something underneath the car. 10 minutes later, he came out to me
and said I have a hole in my condenser. The cost: 900.00 to replace it.
Being a college student, I had no money to fix it. I went 2 years with out
A/C. That summer of 1994 went to jiffy lube for an oil change. The guy ask
me if I wanted to charge my a/c. I told him that it had a hole in the
condenser. He said he will check it out. He came out to me and said that he
added the Freon and there was no leakage. I could not believe I had a/c!!!
That car today which has 489,500 miles on it still has a/c working. I gave
the car to my nephew!! That incident makes me very captious and it really
dampened my trust toward ANY mechanic..
"Rev. Tom Wenndt" <trwenndt@grics.net> wrote in message
news:e752su02ckk@enews4.newsguy.com...
> In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
> auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear where
> your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC hoses)
> are.
>
> But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
> somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good of
> a chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a
> leak.
>
> Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most
> reputable repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple
> (and fairly inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
>
> What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But
> most of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Tom Wenndt
>
>
> "sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
> news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>>
>
>
06-19-2006, 10:46 AM
#6
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
Thanks for your reply. So in other words, your saying that chances are I
have a leak because the a/c does not run as cold as it used too? That scares
me!! My last car was a nightmare. I bought a brand new 1992 cavalier. After
using the car for 10 months, the a/c was not cool anymore. Brought it to
Firestone to get it looked at. Was in the waiting room watching this
guy(creepy looking) put it up on a lift, took a crowbar type and started
banging something underneath the car. 10 minutes later, he came out to me
and said I have a hole in my condenser. The cost: 900.00 to replace it.
Being a college student, I had no money to fix it. I went 2 years with out
A/C. That summer of 1994 went to jiffy lube for an oil change. The guy ask
me if I wanted to charge my a/c. I told him that it had a hole in the
condenser. He said he will check it out. He came out to me and said that he
added the Freon and there was no leakage. I could not believe I had a/c!!!
That car today which has 489,500 miles on it still has a/c working. I gave
the car to my nephew!! That incident makes me very captious and it really
dampened my trust toward ANY mechanic..
"Rev. Tom Wenndt" <trwenndt@grics.net> wrote in message
news:e752su02ckk@enews4.newsguy.com...
> In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
> auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear where
> your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC hoses)
> are.
>
> But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
> somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good of
> a chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a
> leak.
>
> Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most
> reputable repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple
> (and fairly inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
>
> What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But
> most of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Tom Wenndt
>
>
> "sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
> news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>>
>
>
have a leak because the a/c does not run as cold as it used too? That scares
me!! My last car was a nightmare. I bought a brand new 1992 cavalier. After
using the car for 10 months, the a/c was not cool anymore. Brought it to
Firestone to get it looked at. Was in the waiting room watching this
guy(creepy looking) put it up on a lift, took a crowbar type and started
banging something underneath the car. 10 minutes later, he came out to me
and said I have a hole in my condenser. The cost: 900.00 to replace it.
Being a college student, I had no money to fix it. I went 2 years with out
A/C. That summer of 1994 went to jiffy lube for an oil change. The guy ask
me if I wanted to charge my a/c. I told him that it had a hole in the
condenser. He said he will check it out. He came out to me and said that he
added the Freon and there was no leakage. I could not believe I had a/c!!!
That car today which has 489,500 miles on it still has a/c working. I gave
the car to my nephew!! That incident makes me very captious and it really
dampened my trust toward ANY mechanic..
"Rev. Tom Wenndt" <trwenndt@grics.net> wrote in message
news:e752su02ckk@enews4.newsguy.com...
> In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
> auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear where
> your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC hoses)
> are.
>
> But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
> somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good of
> a chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a
> leak.
>
> Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most
> reputable repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple
> (and fairly inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
>
> What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But
> most of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Tom Wenndt
>
>
> "sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
> news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>>
>
>
06-19-2006, 10:46 AM
#7
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
Thanks for your reply. So in other words, your saying that chances are I
have a leak because the a/c does not run as cold as it used too? That scares
me!! My last car was a nightmare. I bought a brand new 1992 cavalier. After
using the car for 10 months, the a/c was not cool anymore. Brought it to
Firestone to get it looked at. Was in the waiting room watching this
guy(creepy looking) put it up on a lift, took a crowbar type and started
banging something underneath the car. 10 minutes later, he came out to me
and said I have a hole in my condenser. The cost: 900.00 to replace it.
Being a college student, I had no money to fix it. I went 2 years with out
A/C. That summer of 1994 went to jiffy lube for an oil change. The guy ask
me if I wanted to charge my a/c. I told him that it had a hole in the
condenser. He said he will check it out. He came out to me and said that he
added the Freon and there was no leakage. I could not believe I had a/c!!!
That car today which has 489,500 miles on it still has a/c working. I gave
the car to my nephew!! That incident makes me very captious and it really
dampened my trust toward ANY mechanic..
"Rev. Tom Wenndt" <trwenndt@grics.net> wrote in message
news:e752su02ckk@enews4.newsguy.com...
> In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
> auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear where
> your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC hoses)
> are.
>
> But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
> somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good of
> a chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a
> leak.
>
> Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most
> reputable repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple
> (and fairly inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
>
> What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But
> most of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Tom Wenndt
>
>
> "sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
> news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>>
>
>
have a leak because the a/c does not run as cold as it used too? That scares
me!! My last car was a nightmare. I bought a brand new 1992 cavalier. After
using the car for 10 months, the a/c was not cool anymore. Brought it to
Firestone to get it looked at. Was in the waiting room watching this
guy(creepy looking) put it up on a lift, took a crowbar type and started
banging something underneath the car. 10 minutes later, he came out to me
and said I have a hole in my condenser. The cost: 900.00 to replace it.
Being a college student, I had no money to fix it. I went 2 years with out
A/C. That summer of 1994 went to jiffy lube for an oil change. The guy ask
me if I wanted to charge my a/c. I told him that it had a hole in the
condenser. He said he will check it out. He came out to me and said that he
added the Freon and there was no leakage. I could not believe I had a/c!!!
That car today which has 489,500 miles on it still has a/c working. I gave
the car to my nephew!! That incident makes me very captious and it really
dampened my trust toward ANY mechanic..
"Rev. Tom Wenndt" <trwenndt@grics.net> wrote in message
news:e752su02ckk@enews4.newsguy.com...
> In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
> auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear where
> your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC hoses)
> are.
>
> But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
> somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good of
> a chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a
> leak.
>
> Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most
> reputable repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple
> (and fairly inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
>
> What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But
> most of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Tom Wenndt
>
>
> "sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
> news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>>
>
>
06-19-2006, 04:49 PM
#8
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
There is no question that the number one thing all of us could use, in the
world of autos, is a reliable and reasonably priced mechanic and/or repair
shop.
Sorry for your experience. I am even more sorry that it happened at
Firestone, since in my community, Firestone is probably THE most reputable
and well respected repair place in the area. They have helped me with a lot
of things I can't do myself. If they knew where this place of yours was,
the people at Firestone here would make trouble to the national
headquarters, because they realize that all Firestone's are tarnished with a
bad experience at one.
As I said - the A/C charge kit is fairly inexpensive and fairly easy to do.
Try it, and if you are unsure, go to Autozone or someplace like it where
they can tell you exactly what to do on your car. If it works, you have
cold A/C, and the satisfaction of having done it yourself.
If it only works for a while, then gets "un-cold" again, then you know you
have a leak. Then ask friends and what have you for recommendations on a
reputable shop who can do a relatively inexpensive dye test that will
quickly tell them (and you, when they show you) where the leak actually is.
My first guess would be a hose - still not the cheapest part in the world
(A/C parts never are), but a whole lot better than a compressor or
condenser.
Hope this helps.
Tom Wenndt
"sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
news:nNylg.21941$8q.9037@dukeread08...
> Thanks for your reply. So in other words, your saying that chances are I
> have a leak because the a/c does not run as cold as it used too? That
> scares me!! My last car was a nightmare. I bought a brand new 1992
> cavalier. After using the car for 10 months, the a/c was not cool anymore.
> Brought it to Firestone to get it looked at. Was in the waiting room
> watching this guy(creepy looking) put it up on a lift, took a crowbar type
> and started banging something underneath the car. 10 minutes later, he
> came out to me and said I have a hole in my condenser. The cost: 900.00 to
> replace it. Being a college student, I had no money to fix it. I went 2
> years with out A/C. That summer of 1994 went to jiffy lube for an oil
> change. The guy ask me if I wanted to charge my a/c. I told him that it
> had a hole in the condenser. He said he will check it out. He came out to
> me and said that he added the Freon and there was no leakage. I could not
> believe I had a/c!!! That car today which has 489,500 miles on it still
> has a/c working. I gave the car to my nephew!! That incident makes me very
> captious and it really dampened my trust toward ANY mechanic..
>
>
>
> "Rev. Tom Wenndt" <trwenndt@grics.net> wrote in message
> news:e752su02ckk@enews4.newsguy.com...
>> In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
>> auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear
>> where your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC
>> hoses) are.
>>
>> But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
>> somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good
>> of a chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a
>> leak.
>>
>> Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most
>> reputable repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple
>> (and fairly inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
>>
>> What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But
>> most of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
>>
>> Hope this helps.
>>
>> Tom Wenndt
>>
>>
>> "sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
>> news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>>>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>>>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>>>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>>>
>>
>>
>
>
world of autos, is a reliable and reasonably priced mechanic and/or repair
shop.
Sorry for your experience. I am even more sorry that it happened at
Firestone, since in my community, Firestone is probably THE most reputable
and well respected repair place in the area. They have helped me with a lot
of things I can't do myself. If they knew where this place of yours was,
the people at Firestone here would make trouble to the national
headquarters, because they realize that all Firestone's are tarnished with a
bad experience at one.
As I said - the A/C charge kit is fairly inexpensive and fairly easy to do.
Try it, and if you are unsure, go to Autozone or someplace like it where
they can tell you exactly what to do on your car. If it works, you have
cold A/C, and the satisfaction of having done it yourself.
If it only works for a while, then gets "un-cold" again, then you know you
have a leak. Then ask friends and what have you for recommendations on a
reputable shop who can do a relatively inexpensive dye test that will
quickly tell them (and you, when they show you) where the leak actually is.
My first guess would be a hose - still not the cheapest part in the world
(A/C parts never are), but a whole lot better than a compressor or
condenser.
Hope this helps.
Tom Wenndt
"sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
news:nNylg.21941$8q.9037@dukeread08...
> Thanks for your reply. So in other words, your saying that chances are I
> have a leak because the a/c does not run as cold as it used too? That
> scares me!! My last car was a nightmare. I bought a brand new 1992
> cavalier. After using the car for 10 months, the a/c was not cool anymore.
> Brought it to Firestone to get it looked at. Was in the waiting room
> watching this guy(creepy looking) put it up on a lift, took a crowbar type
> and started banging something underneath the car. 10 minutes later, he
> came out to me and said I have a hole in my condenser. The cost: 900.00 to
> replace it. Being a college student, I had no money to fix it. I went 2
> years with out A/C. That summer of 1994 went to jiffy lube for an oil
> change. The guy ask me if I wanted to charge my a/c. I told him that it
> had a hole in the condenser. He said he will check it out. He came out to
> me and said that he added the Freon and there was no leakage. I could not
> believe I had a/c!!! That car today which has 489,500 miles on it still
> has a/c working. I gave the car to my nephew!! That incident makes me very
> captious and it really dampened my trust toward ANY mechanic..
>
>
>
> "Rev. Tom Wenndt" <trwenndt@grics.net> wrote in message
> news:e752su02ckk@enews4.newsguy.com...
>> In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
>> auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear
>> where your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC
>> hoses) are.
>>
>> But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
>> somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good
>> of a chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a
>> leak.
>>
>> Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most
>> reputable repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple
>> (and fairly inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
>>
>> What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But
>> most of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
>>
>> Hope this helps.
>>
>> Tom Wenndt
>>
>>
>> "sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
>> news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>>>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>>>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>>>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>>>
>>
>>
>
>
06-19-2006, 04:49 PM
#9
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
There is no question that the number one thing all of us could use, in the
world of autos, is a reliable and reasonably priced mechanic and/or repair
shop.
Sorry for your experience. I am even more sorry that it happened at
Firestone, since in my community, Firestone is probably THE most reputable
and well respected repair place in the area. They have helped me with a lot
of things I can't do myself. If they knew where this place of yours was,
the people at Firestone here would make trouble to the national
headquarters, because they realize that all Firestone's are tarnished with a
bad experience at one.
As I said - the A/C charge kit is fairly inexpensive and fairly easy to do.
Try it, and if you are unsure, go to Autozone or someplace like it where
they can tell you exactly what to do on your car. If it works, you have
cold A/C, and the satisfaction of having done it yourself.
If it only works for a while, then gets "un-cold" again, then you know you
have a leak. Then ask friends and what have you for recommendations on a
reputable shop who can do a relatively inexpensive dye test that will
quickly tell them (and you, when they show you) where the leak actually is.
My first guess would be a hose - still not the cheapest part in the world
(A/C parts never are), but a whole lot better than a compressor or
condenser.
Hope this helps.
Tom Wenndt
"sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
news:nNylg.21941$8q.9037@dukeread08...
> Thanks for your reply. So in other words, your saying that chances are I
> have a leak because the a/c does not run as cold as it used too? That
> scares me!! My last car was a nightmare. I bought a brand new 1992
> cavalier. After using the car for 10 months, the a/c was not cool anymore.
> Brought it to Firestone to get it looked at. Was in the waiting room
> watching this guy(creepy looking) put it up on a lift, took a crowbar type
> and started banging something underneath the car. 10 minutes later, he
> came out to me and said I have a hole in my condenser. The cost: 900.00 to
> replace it. Being a college student, I had no money to fix it. I went 2
> years with out A/C. That summer of 1994 went to jiffy lube for an oil
> change. The guy ask me if I wanted to charge my a/c. I told him that it
> had a hole in the condenser. He said he will check it out. He came out to
> me and said that he added the Freon and there was no leakage. I could not
> believe I had a/c!!! That car today which has 489,500 miles on it still
> has a/c working. I gave the car to my nephew!! That incident makes me very
> captious and it really dampened my trust toward ANY mechanic..
>
>
>
> "Rev. Tom Wenndt" <trwenndt@grics.net> wrote in message
> news:e752su02ckk@enews4.newsguy.com...
>> In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
>> auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear
>> where your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC
>> hoses) are.
>>
>> But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
>> somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good
>> of a chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a
>> leak.
>>
>> Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most
>> reputable repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple
>> (and fairly inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
>>
>> What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But
>> most of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
>>
>> Hope this helps.
>>
>> Tom Wenndt
>>
>>
>> "sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
>> news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>>>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>>>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>>>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>>>
>>
>>
>
>
world of autos, is a reliable and reasonably priced mechanic and/or repair
shop.
Sorry for your experience. I am even more sorry that it happened at
Firestone, since in my community, Firestone is probably THE most reputable
and well respected repair place in the area. They have helped me with a lot
of things I can't do myself. If they knew where this place of yours was,
the people at Firestone here would make trouble to the national
headquarters, because they realize that all Firestone's are tarnished with a
bad experience at one.
As I said - the A/C charge kit is fairly inexpensive and fairly easy to do.
Try it, and if you are unsure, go to Autozone or someplace like it where
they can tell you exactly what to do on your car. If it works, you have
cold A/C, and the satisfaction of having done it yourself.
If it only works for a while, then gets "un-cold" again, then you know you
have a leak. Then ask friends and what have you for recommendations on a
reputable shop who can do a relatively inexpensive dye test that will
quickly tell them (and you, when they show you) where the leak actually is.
My first guess would be a hose - still not the cheapest part in the world
(A/C parts never are), but a whole lot better than a compressor or
condenser.
Hope this helps.
Tom Wenndt
"sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
news:nNylg.21941$8q.9037@dukeread08...
> Thanks for your reply. So in other words, your saying that chances are I
> have a leak because the a/c does not run as cold as it used too? That
> scares me!! My last car was a nightmare. I bought a brand new 1992
> cavalier. After using the car for 10 months, the a/c was not cool anymore.
> Brought it to Firestone to get it looked at. Was in the waiting room
> watching this guy(creepy looking) put it up on a lift, took a crowbar type
> and started banging something underneath the car. 10 minutes later, he
> came out to me and said I have a hole in my condenser. The cost: 900.00 to
> replace it. Being a college student, I had no money to fix it. I went 2
> years with out A/C. That summer of 1994 went to jiffy lube for an oil
> change. The guy ask me if I wanted to charge my a/c. I told him that it
> had a hole in the condenser. He said he will check it out. He came out to
> me and said that he added the Freon and there was no leakage. I could not
> believe I had a/c!!! That car today which has 489,500 miles on it still
> has a/c working. I gave the car to my nephew!! That incident makes me very
> captious and it really dampened my trust toward ANY mechanic..
>
>
>
> "Rev. Tom Wenndt" <trwenndt@grics.net> wrote in message
> news:e752su02ckk@enews4.newsguy.com...
>> In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
>> auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear
>> where your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC
>> hoses) are.
>>
>> But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
>> somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good
>> of a chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a
>> leak.
>>
>> Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most
>> reputable repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple
>> (and fairly inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
>>
>> What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But
>> most of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
>>
>> Hope this helps.
>>
>> Tom Wenndt
>>
>>
>> "sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
>> news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>>>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>>>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>>>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>>>
>>
>>
>
>
06-19-2006, 04:49 PM
#10
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
There is no question that the number one thing all of us could use, in the
world of autos, is a reliable and reasonably priced mechanic and/or repair
shop.
Sorry for your experience. I am even more sorry that it happened at
Firestone, since in my community, Firestone is probably THE most reputable
and well respected repair place in the area. They have helped me with a lot
of things I can't do myself. If they knew where this place of yours was,
the people at Firestone here would make trouble to the national
headquarters, because they realize that all Firestone's are tarnished with a
bad experience at one.
As I said - the A/C charge kit is fairly inexpensive and fairly easy to do.
Try it, and if you are unsure, go to Autozone or someplace like it where
they can tell you exactly what to do on your car. If it works, you have
cold A/C, and the satisfaction of having done it yourself.
If it only works for a while, then gets "un-cold" again, then you know you
have a leak. Then ask friends and what have you for recommendations on a
reputable shop who can do a relatively inexpensive dye test that will
quickly tell them (and you, when they show you) where the leak actually is.
My first guess would be a hose - still not the cheapest part in the world
(A/C parts never are), but a whole lot better than a compressor or
condenser.
Hope this helps.
Tom Wenndt
"sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
news:nNylg.21941$8q.9037@dukeread08...
> Thanks for your reply. So in other words, your saying that chances are I
> have a leak because the a/c does not run as cold as it used too? That
> scares me!! My last car was a nightmare. I bought a brand new 1992
> cavalier. After using the car for 10 months, the a/c was not cool anymore.
> Brought it to Firestone to get it looked at. Was in the waiting room
> watching this guy(creepy looking) put it up on a lift, took a crowbar type
> and started banging something underneath the car. 10 minutes later, he
> came out to me and said I have a hole in my condenser. The cost: 900.00 to
> replace it. Being a college student, I had no money to fix it. I went 2
> years with out A/C. That summer of 1994 went to jiffy lube for an oil
> change. The guy ask me if I wanted to charge my a/c. I told him that it
> had a hole in the condenser. He said he will check it out. He came out to
> me and said that he added the Freon and there was no leakage. I could not
> believe I had a/c!!! That car today which has 489,500 miles on it still
> has a/c working. I gave the car to my nephew!! That incident makes me very
> captious and it really dampened my trust toward ANY mechanic..
>
>
>
> "Rev. Tom Wenndt" <trwenndt@grics.net> wrote in message
> news:e752su02ckk@enews4.newsguy.com...
>> In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
>> auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear
>> where your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC
>> hoses) are.
>>
>> But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
>> somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good
>> of a chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a
>> leak.
>>
>> Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most
>> reputable repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple
>> (and fairly inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
>>
>> What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But
>> most of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
>>
>> Hope this helps.
>>
>> Tom Wenndt
>>
>>
>> "sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
>> news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>>>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>>>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>>>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>>>
>>
>>
>
>
world of autos, is a reliable and reasonably priced mechanic and/or repair
shop.
Sorry for your experience. I am even more sorry that it happened at
Firestone, since in my community, Firestone is probably THE most reputable
and well respected repair place in the area. They have helped me with a lot
of things I can't do myself. If they knew where this place of yours was,
the people at Firestone here would make trouble to the national
headquarters, because they realize that all Firestone's are tarnished with a
bad experience at one.
As I said - the A/C charge kit is fairly inexpensive and fairly easy to do.
Try it, and if you are unsure, go to Autozone or someplace like it where
they can tell you exactly what to do on your car. If it works, you have
cold A/C, and the satisfaction of having done it yourself.
If it only works for a while, then gets "un-cold" again, then you know you
have a leak. Then ask friends and what have you for recommendations on a
reputable shop who can do a relatively inexpensive dye test that will
quickly tell them (and you, when they show you) where the leak actually is.
My first guess would be a hose - still not the cheapest part in the world
(A/C parts never are), but a whole lot better than a compressor or
condenser.
Hope this helps.
Tom Wenndt
"sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
news:nNylg.21941$8q.9037@dukeread08...
> Thanks for your reply. So in other words, your saying that chances are I
> have a leak because the a/c does not run as cold as it used too? That
> scares me!! My last car was a nightmare. I bought a brand new 1992
> cavalier. After using the car for 10 months, the a/c was not cool anymore.
> Brought it to Firestone to get it looked at. Was in the waiting room
> watching this guy(creepy looking) put it up on a lift, took a crowbar type
> and started banging something underneath the car. 10 minutes later, he
> came out to me and said I have a hole in my condenser. The cost: 900.00 to
> replace it. Being a college student, I had no money to fix it. I went 2
> years with out A/C. That summer of 1994 went to jiffy lube for an oil
> change. The guy ask me if I wanted to charge my a/c. I told him that it
> had a hole in the condenser. He said he will check it out. He came out to
> me and said that he added the Freon and there was no leakage. I could not
> believe I had a/c!!! That car today which has 489,500 miles on it still
> has a/c working. I gave the car to my nephew!! That incident makes me very
> captious and it really dampened my trust toward ANY mechanic..
>
>
>
> "Rev. Tom Wenndt" <trwenndt@grics.net> wrote in message
> news:e752su02ckk@enews4.newsguy.com...
>> In a way, yes it is easy. Kits with the required R-134A are available at
>> auto parts stores everywhere, and most Hyundais make it pretty clear
>> where your low pressure and high pressure hose access points (in the AC
>> hoses) are.
>>
>> But if it is not running as cool as it used to, the refrigerant had to go
>> somewhere. And if you just do a simple recharge, there is just as good
>> of a chance that the charge won't last all that long, because you have a
>> leak.
>>
>> Detecting and fixing leaks are best left to A/C specialists. Most
>> reputable repair shops have a good A/C man, and some relatively simple
>> (and fairly inexpensive) tests to check for leaks.
>>
>> What they find, then, and what that might cost are another matter. But
>> most of those repairs are not the "do-it-yourself" type.
>>
>> Hope this helps.
>>
>> Tom Wenndt
>>
>>
>> "sonata32" <sonata32@***.net> wrote in message
>> news:H3klg.21904$8q.21082@dukeread08...
>>>I have an 2003 Sonata 67000 miles on it. Noticed today that my a/c is not
>>>cold like it used to be. Was wondering if it is easy and cheaper to add
>>>what is needed? Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
>>>
>>
>>
>
>
06-19-2006, 05:35 PM
#11
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
Rev. Tom Wenndt wrote:
> If it only works for a while, then gets "un-cold" again, then you know you
> have a leak. Then ask friends and what have you for recommendations on a
> reputable shop who can do a relatively inexpensive dye test that will
> quickly tell them (and you, when they show you) where the leak actually is.
> My first guess would be a hose - still not the cheapest part in the world
> (A/C parts never are), but a whole lot better than a compressor or
> condenser.
You already know you have a leak the first time it quits working if it
quit due to low refrigerant. Why throw good money after bad with a DIY
recharge kit before you've found and fixed the leak?
Matt
> If it only works for a while, then gets "un-cold" again, then you know you
> have a leak. Then ask friends and what have you for recommendations on a
> reputable shop who can do a relatively inexpensive dye test that will
> quickly tell them (and you, when they show you) where the leak actually is.
> My first guess would be a hose - still not the cheapest part in the world
> (A/C parts never are), but a whole lot better than a compressor or
> condenser.
You already know you have a leak the first time it quits working if it
quit due to low refrigerant. Why throw good money after bad with a DIY
recharge kit before you've found and fixed the leak?
Matt
06-19-2006, 05:35 PM
#12
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
Rev. Tom Wenndt wrote:
> If it only works for a while, then gets "un-cold" again, then you know you
> have a leak. Then ask friends and what have you for recommendations on a
> reputable shop who can do a relatively inexpensive dye test that will
> quickly tell them (and you, when they show you) where the leak actually is.
> My first guess would be a hose - still not the cheapest part in the world
> (A/C parts never are), but a whole lot better than a compressor or
> condenser.
You already know you have a leak the first time it quits working if it
quit due to low refrigerant. Why throw good money after bad with a DIY
recharge kit before you've found and fixed the leak?
Matt
> If it only works for a while, then gets "un-cold" again, then you know you
> have a leak. Then ask friends and what have you for recommendations on a
> reputable shop who can do a relatively inexpensive dye test that will
> quickly tell them (and you, when they show you) where the leak actually is.
> My first guess would be a hose - still not the cheapest part in the world
> (A/C parts never are), but a whole lot better than a compressor or
> condenser.
You already know you have a leak the first time it quits working if it
quit due to low refrigerant. Why throw good money after bad with a DIY
recharge kit before you've found and fixed the leak?
Matt
06-19-2006, 05:35 PM
#13
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
Rev. Tom Wenndt wrote:
> If it only works for a while, then gets "un-cold" again, then you know you
> have a leak. Then ask friends and what have you for recommendations on a
> reputable shop who can do a relatively inexpensive dye test that will
> quickly tell them (and you, when they show you) where the leak actually is.
> My first guess would be a hose - still not the cheapest part in the world
> (A/C parts never are), but a whole lot better than a compressor or
> condenser.
You already know you have a leak the first time it quits working if it
quit due to low refrigerant. Why throw good money after bad with a DIY
recharge kit before you've found and fixed the leak?
Matt
> If it only works for a while, then gets "un-cold" again, then you know you
> have a leak. Then ask friends and what have you for recommendations on a
> reputable shop who can do a relatively inexpensive dye test that will
> quickly tell them (and you, when they show you) where the leak actually is.
> My first guess would be a hose - still not the cheapest part in the world
> (A/C parts never are), but a whole lot better than a compressor or
> condenser.
You already know you have a leak the first time it quits working if it
quit due to low refrigerant. Why throw good money after bad with a DIY
recharge kit before you've found and fixed the leak?
Matt
06-19-2006, 08:16 PM
#14
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
"Matt Whiting" <whiting@epix.net> wrote in message
news:YMElg.9866$lb.872070@news1.epix.net...
> Rev. Tom Wenndt wrote:
>
> > If it only works for a while, then gets "un-cold" again, then you know
you
> > have a leak. Then ask friends and what have you for recommendations on
a
> > reputable shop who can do a relatively inexpensive dye test that will
> > quickly tell them (and you, when they show you) where the leak actually
is.
> > My first guess would be a hose - still not the cheapest part in the
world
> > (A/C parts never are), but a whole lot better than a compressor or
> > condenser.
>
> You already know you have a leak the first time it quits working if it
> quit due to low refrigerant. Why throw good money after bad with a DIY
> recharge kit before you've found and fixed the leak?
>
It's worth a shot. It's not uncommon for cars to leak off a can or less of
refrigerant. At the cost of throwing a can at it in the early summer,
versus repair bills, it often makes sense to just refill it. If it's a
small leak as I described, a mere $5 per year is all it takes. I've had to
do that on my truck for a few years now. Doubtful you can get any AC
problem fixed for what I've put into R134A.
--
-Mike-
mmarlowREMOVE@alltel.net
06-19-2006, 08:16 PM
#15
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: A/C needs charge in 03 sonata
"Matt Whiting" <whiting@epix.net> wrote in message
news:YMElg.9866$lb.872070@news1.epix.net...
> Rev. Tom Wenndt wrote:
>
> > If it only works for a while, then gets "un-cold" again, then you know
you
> > have a leak. Then ask friends and what have you for recommendations on
a
> > reputable shop who can do a relatively inexpensive dye test that will
> > quickly tell them (and you, when they show you) where the leak actually
is.
> > My first guess would be a hose - still not the cheapest part in the
world
> > (A/C parts never are), but a whole lot better than a compressor or
> > condenser.
>
> You already know you have a leak the first time it quits working if it
> quit due to low refrigerant. Why throw good money after bad with a DIY
> recharge kit before you've found and fixed the leak?
>
It's worth a shot. It's not uncommon for cars to leak off a can or less of
refrigerant. At the cost of throwing a can at it in the early summer,
versus repair bills, it often makes sense to just refill it. If it's a
small leak as I described, a mere $5 per year is all it takes. I've had to
do that on my truck for a few years now. Doubtful you can get any AC
problem fixed for what I've put into R134A.
--
-Mike-
mmarlowREMOVE@alltel.net
