A/C changes from "circulate" to "fresh air" and A/C turns off

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A/C changes from "circulate" to "fresh air" and A/C turns off

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Chevrolet >> Chevy Cars >> Malibu >> A/C changes from "circulate" to "fresh air" and A/C turns off

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A/C changes from "circulate" to "fresh a... - 4/27/2007 12:12:10 PM

lamboe80

Posts: 1
Joined: 4/27/2007
Status: offline

My 2003 Malibu has a problem with the air conditioner. It switches from circulate to fresh air mode on its own, which is not a huge problem. The problem is that it also causes the green light on the A/C button to turn off. The cold air stops, and hot air starts blowing in, which is no good on a hot day! If I try to push the button again to turn the A/C back, it stays off. The only way I can get the A/C to turn back on is to toggle the speeds.

Does anybody have an idea on what is wrong, and what I need to replace? I hate calling the dealer or a mechanic. I want to get an idea on what it will cost to fix before I go anywhere.

Post #: 1

RE: A/C changes from "circulate" to "fre... - 7/18/2007 8:22:50 AM

MalibuRich

Posts: 8
Joined: 7/18/2007
Status: offline

I incountered the same issue w/ my '03 Malibu. The A/C Control Module is bad and needs to be replaced. Here's the info: GM Part # 22718118 and you can expecto to pay at least $350 parts, labor and tax. I replaced mine under warranty at 29,300 miles and now I have to do it again at 91,000. Aparantly, this problematic.

(in reply to lamboe80)

Post #: 2

RE: A/C changes from "circulate" to "fre... - 8/14/2007 1:42:22 PM

MalibuRich

Posts: 8
Joined: 7/18/2007
Status: offline

Here's a fix that will save you over $300 in repair costs. "Ken5599" suggested that I disconnect and remove the A/C control module from the dash, remove the back cover of the fan speed control switch (which is held on by three (3) torx-head screws.) and clean the copper contacts inside the switch. I used electronic contact cleaner from Radio Shack ($9.95) or you could probably use a Q-tips and isopropyl alcohol in a pinch. I lubricated the copper contacts with a very small amount of WD-40 applied w/ a Q-tip. You could possibly use lithium grease or even a dry lubricant...such as graphite. Just be sure not to use too much. Reassemble the switch, reconnect and remount the A/C control module and you'll be good to go. I can't say that this fix has elliminate the problem completely but it does significantly reduce recurrence of this issue. I was very pleased with the outcome. Good Luck!

< Message edited by MalibuRich -- 8/14/2007 1:45:03 PM >

(in reply to MalibuRich)

Post #: 3