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A/C blowing warm and making a clicking noise in my 2018 MDX

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 26, 3:30 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Acura MDX Base

Hey everyone,

My 2018 Acura MDX Base model's air conditioning has decided to stop blowing cold air. It just blows warm, ambient air, even when set to the lowest temperature. To make things worse, I've started hearing a faint but noticeable clicking or ticking sound coming from the engine bay when the A/C is turned on.

This started happening a few days ago, and it's getting hot out! I've checked the cabin air filter, and it's relatively clean. Could this be a refrigerant leak, or something more serious like the compressor? Any insights or common culprits for this model year?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 26, 3:30 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

An A/C system blowing warm air combined with a clicking noise typically points to a few common issues, often related to the refrigerant system or the compressor itself. Given your 2018 Acura MDX, these are the most likely scenarios.

Common Causes:

  1. Low Refrigerant (Freon): The most common cause of warm A/C is a low refrigerant level, usually due to a small leak somewhere in the system (hoses, O-rings, condenser, evaporator).
  2. A/C Compressor Clutch: The clicking sound is often the A/C clutch attempting to engage but failing due to low refrigerant pressure or a fault within the clutch itself. If the pressure is too low, a safety switch prevents the compressor from running to avoid damage.
  3. Faulty Compressor: If the clutch engages but the compressor isn't building pressure, the compressor itself might be failing internally.
  4. Electrical Issues: A blown fuse or a faulty relay for the A/C compressor can prevent it from engaging.

What to Check/Do:

  1. Check Fuses/Relays: Locate the fuse box (usually under the hood and/or inside the cabin) and check the fuse and relay specifically for the A/C compressor. Consult your owner's manual for locations.
  2. Visual Inspection: Look for any obvious signs of leaks (oily residue) around A/C lines, the compressor, or the condenser (located in front of the radiator).
  3. Listen Carefully: Try to pinpoint the exact location of the clicking sound. If it's coming directly from the compressor pulley area, it strongly suggests a clutch or refrigerant issue.

When to See a Shop:

  • Immediately if you suspect a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is a greenhouse gas and should be handled by certified professionals.
  • If checking fuses doesn't resolve the issue.
  • If the clicking persists and no cold air is produced.

While there isn't a specific OBD code for low refrigerant, a diagnostic scan might reveal a B1241 (A/C Compressor Clutch Circuit Malfunction) or similar if there's an electrical fault. An automotive A/C specialist or Acura dealership has the proper equipment to safely evacuate and recharge the system, perform a leak test, and diagnose the compressor and clutch. They can accurately determine if a simple recharge, a component replacement (like a pressure switch, clutch, or compressor), or a leak repair is needed.

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