SLK 55 air con issue

[clarki]

So, my slk was in for an MOT today.

Passed no issue but whilst picking up the mechanic asked me if I knew the aircon wasn't working.

TBH I had no idea. The car is a 2015 and for one reason or another hasn't been used much. Yet to hit 10k miles.

He reckoned it just needs a re-gas. Does this seem likely or could there be something more serious? And where would I go to get things underway.

Any advice greatly appreciated.

[GTRene]

best is to use the aircon at least every month for a while, so dat all things/rubbers/etc also get lubed a bit, in the aircon stuff sits also a bit good stuf so it seems?

so when its up to date again (refill) then also use it occasionally, its better for the system.

[V40TC]

It will also require to be rest via STAR diagnostics
a refill will not make it work till that is done.
I would get the dye added as you may well have a leak and you will need to find the leak
fix reset/refill

[Dog Star]

V40TC said:

It will also require to be rest via STAR diagnostics
a refill will not make it work till that is done.
I would get the dye added as you may well have a leak and you will need to find the leak
fix reset/refill

iCarsoft diagnostic computers can also do the reset - I have one and they can pay for themselves pretty sharpish.

[clarki]

Thanks folks.

Will look into a rest/diagnostic reader. As said. Could be worth its weight.

Had a similar issue with our 7 year old Yaris back at the start of the year. Refilled in with a recharge kit from STP and it's been ice cold ever since. Was a fairly simple operation after a few you tube how to videos.

[Dog Star]

I’ve fixed a few AC systems - it has always been the condenser. This was confirmed for me by the mobile chap that came out to leak test and refill ours - he reckons 95% of times it’s a leaking condenser.

It’s not hugely difficult on an SLK, worst bit is separating the oil cooler/intercooler/condenser set - they’re all sandwiched together. I’m sure a pro would do it in a couple of hours.

Condensers are cheap as chips nowadays - this chap recommended a make called EIS - was about £70 for the condenser plus £60 for the leak/vacuum test and regas. I live in Lancashire, so you may pay more I guess if you’re in That London. It then needed the fault code clearing, luckily I have the iCarsoft.

[clarki]

Quick update in case it helps anyone.

All it needed was a re-gas. Phew!!

As mentioned earlier I was advised to use the aircon regularly to keep the system just so. Every day is a school day.