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AC Not Blowing Cold in My 2017 Buick Encore Preferred

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Steve N. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:54 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Buick Encore Preferred

Hi everyone,

My 2017 Buick Encore Preferred's air conditioning system just stopped blowing cold air. The fan works fine, and I can hear it blowing, but it's just ambient temperature air, not chilled at all. This happened pretty suddenly.

I've checked the cabin air filter, and it seems okay. Before I take it to a shop, does anyone have any common issues or quick checks I can do for a 2017 Encore? Could it be something simple like a fuse, or am I looking at a bigger problem?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:54 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It's frustrating when your AC stops working, especially in warmer weather. For your 2017 Buick Encore Preferred, here are the most common culprits and steps to diagnose:

  1. Refrigerant Leak: This is the most frequent cause of an AC system not blowing cold. Over time, refrigerant can leak out through seals, hoses, or the condenser. If the pressure is too low, the compressor won't engage. You can often buy a DIY AC recharge kit with a gauge, but this only temporarily fixes a leak; the leak itself needs to be found and repaired.
  2. Compressor Clutch Failure: The AC compressor is responsible for pressurizing the refrigerant. If the clutch that engages the compressor is faulty, the compressor won't spin. With the engine running and AC on max, visually inspect the front of the compressor to see if the clutch is spinning. If it's not, it could be an electrical issue to the clutch, the clutch itself, or the compressor.
  3. Electrical Issues: A blown fuse or a faulty relay can prevent the AC system from engaging. Check the fuse box (usually under the hood and/or inside the cabin) for any blown fuses related to the AC compressor or HVAC system. Consult your owner's manual for the exact fuse locations.
  4. Blend Door Actuator: While less likely to cause no cold air, a faulty blend door actuator can prevent cold air from reaching the cabin, directing only warm air. You might hear clicking or whirring noises from behind the dashboard if this is failing.

When to See a Shop: If a simple fuse check doesn't resolve the issue, or if you suspect a refrigerant leak or compressor problem, it's best to take your Encore to a professional. AC systems require specialized tools for proper diagnosis and repair, especially when dealing with refrigerant, which is a regulated substance. While there aren't specific OBD-II codes for AC performance, a shop can check for B-codes (body control module) or C-codes (chassis) that might indirectly point to an electrical issue.

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