2000 Cherokee Defrost and AC Problems
 

Have a ploblem with my 2000 Cherokee - windshield was fogging up
slightly at the very bottom in the middle, then once while driving in
heavy rain after about an hour couldn't defrost the windows anymore -
there seemed to be moist air blowing out, and the smell was different
- you could smell and feel the moisture in the air, but I didn't think
it had a coolant smell to it - had to turn off the fan and drive with
the windows down to keep the windows clear. Air conditioner wasn't
always cold either - would be cold first thing in the morning as long
the outside temperature wasn't too hot, but if I was driving much
during the day, eventually the ac wouldn't blow cold anymore. There
was never any water on the floor or wet carpets.

Took it to the dealer and they said the heater core was gone and
replaced it. Got it back with the promise that "your ac is as good as
the day it was made" ...well, same thing - smell isn't quite as
pronounced - only after 30 minutes and I get the moist air blowing
out and fogging up the windows, when it's raining. AC has exactly the
same problem- cold first thing in the morning, but doesn't last. Been
back to the dealer three times now - they can't find the problem and
want me to bring in in on a rainy day so that they can keep it for a
few days so the tech can take it home and try and experience the
problem first hand, which of course is inconvenient for me. The first
time I brought it back with the exact same symptoms, they said that
the AC clutch might be sticking - I should also replace this -
however, the price will add another $1000 minimum to the $1500 I've
already spent.

Any other ideas as to what to check? As it seems to be more
problematic in rain, is there maybe a blockage somewhere? Did I need
to change the heater core at all?

Thanks in advance,
Sheila

Re: 2000 Cherokee Defrost and AC Problems
 

do not have the ac clutch replaced if it is working it will be a waste
if there is water on the floor of the jeep such as a windshield leak the
ac can not remove the moisture from the air fast enough and if the recir
door is seized or broke windows will also fog
are you sure the ac is working the jeep is well known for evap coil
failure which is in the dash next to the heater core
just so you know i do the same work for people in my driveway for about
500 parts and labor

wedontdoit@hotmail.com wrote:

> Have a ploblem with my 2000 Cherokee - windshield was fogging up
> slightly at the very bottom in the middle, then once while driving in
> heavy rain after about an hour couldn't defrost the windows anymore -
> there seemed to be moist air blowing out, and the smell was different
> - you could smell and feel the moisture in the air, but I didn't think
> it had a coolant smell to it - had to turn off the fan and drive with
> the windows down to keep the windows clear. Air conditioner wasn't
> always cold either - would be cold first thing in the morning as long
> the outside temperature wasn't too hot, but if I was driving much
> during the day, eventually the ac wouldn't blow cold anymore. There
> was never any water on the floor or wet carpets.
>
> Took it to the dealer and they said the heater core was gone and
> replaced it. Got it back with the promise that "your ac is as good as
> the day it was made" ...well, same thing - smell isn't quite as
> pronounced - only after 30 minutes and I get the moist air blowing
> out and fogging up the windows, when it's raining. AC has exactly the
> same problem- cold first thing in the morning, but doesn't last. Been
> back to the dealer three times now - they can't find the problem and
> want me to bring in in on a rainy day so that they can keep it for a
> few days so the tech can take it home and try and experience the
> problem first hand, which of course is inconvenient for me. The first
> time I brought it back with the exact same symptoms, they said that
> the AC clutch might be sticking - I should also replace this -
> however, the price will add another $1000 minimum to the $1500 I've
> already spent.
>
> Any other ideas as to what to check? As it seems to be more
> problematic in rain, is there maybe a blockage somewhere? Did I need
> to change the heater core at all?
>
> Thanks in advance,
> Sheila

Re: 2000 Cherokee Defrost and AC Problems
 

do not have the ac clutch replaced if it is working it will be a waste
if there is water on the floor of the jeep such as a windshield leak the
ac can not remove the moisture from the air fast enough and if the recir
door is seized or broke windows will also fog
are you sure the ac is working the jeep is well known for evap coil
failure which is in the dash next to the heater core
just so you know i do the same work for people in my driveway for about
500 parts and labor

wedontdoit@hotmail.com wrote:

> Have a ploblem with my 2000 Cherokee - windshield was fogging up
> slightly at the very bottom in the middle, then once while driving in
> heavy rain after about an hour couldn't defrost the windows anymore -
> there seemed to be moist air blowing out, and the smell was different
> - you could smell and feel the moisture in the air, but I didn't think
> it had a coolant smell to it - had to turn off the fan and drive with
> the windows down to keep the windows clear. Air conditioner wasn't
> always cold either - would be cold first thing in the morning as long
> the outside temperature wasn't too hot, but if I was driving much
> during the day, eventually the ac wouldn't blow cold anymore. There
> was never any water on the floor or wet carpets.
>
> Took it to the dealer and they said the heater core was gone and
> replaced it. Got it back with the promise that "your ac is as good as
> the day it was made" ...well, same thing - smell isn't quite as
> pronounced - only after 30 minutes and I get the moist air blowing
> out and fogging up the windows, when it's raining. AC has exactly the
> same problem- cold first thing in the morning, but doesn't last. Been
> back to the dealer three times now - they can't find the problem and
> want me to bring in in on a rainy day so that they can keep it for a
> few days so the tech can take it home and try and experience the
> problem first hand, which of course is inconvenient for me. The first
> time I brought it back with the exact same symptoms, they said that
> the AC clutch might be sticking - I should also replace this -
> however, the price will add another $1000 minimum to the $1500 I've
> already spent.
>
> Any other ideas as to what to check? As it seems to be more
> problematic in rain, is there maybe a blockage somewhere? Did I need
> to change the heater core at all?
>
> Thanks in advance,
> Sheila

Re: 2000 Cherokee Defrost and AC Problems
 

do not have the ac clutch replaced if it is working it will be a waste
if there is water on the floor of the jeep such as a windshield leak the
ac can not remove the moisture from the air fast enough and if the recir
door is seized or broke windows will also fog
are you sure the ac is working the jeep is well known for evap coil
failure which is in the dash next to the heater core
just so you know i do the same work for people in my driveway for about
500 parts and labor

wedontdoit@hotmail.com wrote:

> Have a ploblem with my 2000 Cherokee - windshield was fogging up
> slightly at the very bottom in the middle, then once while driving in
> heavy rain after about an hour couldn't defrost the windows anymore -
> there seemed to be moist air blowing out, and the smell was different
> - you could smell and feel the moisture in the air, but I didn't think
> it had a coolant smell to it - had to turn off the fan and drive with
> the windows down to keep the windows clear. Air conditioner wasn't
> always cold either - would be cold first thing in the morning as long
> the outside temperature wasn't too hot, but if I was driving much
> during the day, eventually the ac wouldn't blow cold anymore. There
> was never any water on the floor or wet carpets.
>
> Took it to the dealer and they said the heater core was gone and
> replaced it. Got it back with the promise that "your ac is as good as
> the day it was made" ...well, same thing - smell isn't quite as
> pronounced - only after 30 minutes and I get the moist air blowing
> out and fogging up the windows, when it's raining. AC has exactly the
> same problem- cold first thing in the morning, but doesn't last. Been
> back to the dealer three times now - they can't find the problem and
> want me to bring in in on a rainy day so that they can keep it for a
> few days so the tech can take it home and try and experience the
> problem first hand, which of course is inconvenient for me. The first
> time I brought it back with the exact same symptoms, they said that
> the AC clutch might be sticking - I should also replace this -
> however, the price will add another $1000 minimum to the $1500 I've
> already spent.
>
> Any other ideas as to what to check? As it seems to be more
> problematic in rain, is there maybe a blockage somewhere? Did I need
> to change the heater core at all?
>
> Thanks in advance,
> Sheila

Re: 2000 Cherokee Defrost and AC Problems
 

wedontdoit@hotmail.com wrote:

> Have a ploblem with my 2000 Cherokee - windshield was fogging up
> slightly at the very bottom in the middle, then once while driving in
> heavy rain after about an hour couldn't defrost the windows anymore -
> there seemed to be moist air blowing out, and the smell was different
> - you could smell and feel the moisture in the air, but I didn't think
> it had a coolant smell to it - had to turn off the fan and drive with
> the windows down to keep the windows clear. Air conditioner wasn't
> always cold either - would be cold first thing in the morning as long
> the outside temperature wasn't too hot, but if I was driving much
> during the day, eventually the ac wouldn't blow cold anymore. There
> was never any water on the floor or wet carpets.

Hello Sheila.

If you're using the defroster and the windshield does not clear within 30
seconds (heat or no heat!), the A/C system is not functioning properly. The
A/C system engages when you use defrost mode. This system removes moisture
from the air (both recirculating and outside air) before it enters the cabin,
and this air should be dry as a bone.

Coolant leaks from the heater core produce a very unpleasant, sweet smell and
usually leave a greasy, sticky film on interior glass surfaces. Very easy to
spot and diagnose.

> Took it to the dealer and they said the heater core was gone and
> replaced it. Got it back with the promise that "your ac is as good as
> the day it was made" ...well, same thing - smell isn't quite as
> pronounced - only after 30 minutes and I get the moist air blowing
> out and fogging up the windows, when it's raining. AC has exactly the
> same problem- cold first thing in the morning, but doesn't last. Been
> back to the dealer three times now - they can't find the problem and
> want me to bring in in on a rainy day so that they can keep it for a
> few days

The dealer lied to you. Stop taking your vehicle to the dealership.

My diagnosis: low A/C refrigerant charge. Cost to fix for the DIY mechanic:
$6-12.00, unless you have compressor problems.

How to tell if you have compressor problems? Engine on, turn on the
defroster. Open hood. Look at A/C compressor pulley. The entire A/C
compressor pulley assembly should be rotating. If it "cuts out" often, you
have a low refrigerant charge. If it does not turn at all, you have other
problems that a reputable A/C shop should dianose and repair.

My suggestion: take your vehicle to a reputable A/C shop and ask them to
diagnose the problem. If they don't fix it properly, don't pay them. Use a
credit card to keep them honest.

Re: 2000 Cherokee Defrost and AC Problems
 

wedontdoit@hotmail.com wrote:

> Have a ploblem with my 2000 Cherokee - windshield was fogging up
> slightly at the very bottom in the middle, then once while driving in
> heavy rain after about an hour couldn't defrost the windows anymore -
> there seemed to be moist air blowing out, and the smell was different
> - you could smell and feel the moisture in the air, but I didn't think
> it had a coolant smell to it - had to turn off the fan and drive with
> the windows down to keep the windows clear. Air conditioner wasn't
> always cold either - would be cold first thing in the morning as long
> the outside temperature wasn't too hot, but if I was driving much
> during the day, eventually the ac wouldn't blow cold anymore. There
> was never any water on the floor or wet carpets.

Hello Sheila.

If you're using the defroster and the windshield does not clear within 30
seconds (heat or no heat!), the A/C system is not functioning properly. The
A/C system engages when you use defrost mode. This system removes moisture
from the air (both recirculating and outside air) before it enters the cabin,
and this air should be dry as a bone.

Coolant leaks from the heater core produce a very unpleasant, sweet smell and
usually leave a greasy, sticky film on interior glass surfaces. Very easy to
spot and diagnose.

> Took it to the dealer and they said the heater core was gone and
> replaced it. Got it back with the promise that "your ac is as good as
> the day it was made" ...well, same thing - smell isn't quite as
> pronounced - only after 30 minutes and I get the moist air blowing
> out and fogging up the windows, when it's raining. AC has exactly the
> same problem- cold first thing in the morning, but doesn't last. Been
> back to the dealer three times now - they can't find the problem and
> want me to bring in in on a rainy day so that they can keep it for a
> few days

The dealer lied to you. Stop taking your vehicle to the dealership.

My diagnosis: low A/C refrigerant charge. Cost to fix for the DIY mechanic:
$6-12.00, unless you have compressor problems.

How to tell if you have compressor problems? Engine on, turn on the
defroster. Open hood. Look at A/C compressor pulley. The entire A/C
compressor pulley assembly should be rotating. If it "cuts out" often, you
have a low refrigerant charge. If it does not turn at all, you have other
problems that a reputable A/C shop should dianose and repair.

My suggestion: take your vehicle to a reputable A/C shop and ask them to
diagnose the problem. If they don't fix it properly, don't pay them. Use a
credit card to keep them honest.

Re: 2000 Cherokee Defrost and AC Problems
 

wedontdoit@hotmail.com wrote:

> Have a ploblem with my 2000 Cherokee - windshield was fogging up
> slightly at the very bottom in the middle, then once while driving in
> heavy rain after about an hour couldn't defrost the windows anymore -
> there seemed to be moist air blowing out, and the smell was different
> - you could smell and feel the moisture in the air, but I didn't think
> it had a coolant smell to it - had to turn off the fan and drive with
> the windows down to keep the windows clear. Air conditioner wasn't
> always cold either - would be cold first thing in the morning as long
> the outside temperature wasn't too hot, but if I was driving much
> during the day, eventually the ac wouldn't blow cold anymore. There
> was never any water on the floor or wet carpets.

Hello Sheila.

If you're using the defroster and the windshield does not clear within 30
seconds (heat or no heat!), the A/C system is not functioning properly. The
A/C system engages when you use defrost mode. This system removes moisture
from the air (both recirculating and outside air) before it enters the cabin,
and this air should be dry as a bone.

Coolant leaks from the heater core produce a very unpleasant, sweet smell and
usually leave a greasy, sticky film on interior glass surfaces. Very easy to
spot and diagnose.

> Took it to the dealer and they said the heater core was gone and
> replaced it. Got it back with the promise that "your ac is as good as
> the day it was made" ...well, same thing - smell isn't quite as
> pronounced - only after 30 minutes and I get the moist air blowing
> out and fogging up the windows, when it's raining. AC has exactly the
> same problem- cold first thing in the morning, but doesn't last. Been
> back to the dealer three times now - they can't find the problem and
> want me to bring in in on a rainy day so that they can keep it for a
> few days

The dealer lied to you. Stop taking your vehicle to the dealership.

My diagnosis: low A/C refrigerant charge. Cost to fix for the DIY mechanic:
$6-12.00, unless you have compressor problems.

How to tell if you have compressor problems? Engine on, turn on the
defroster. Open hood. Look at A/C compressor pulley. The entire A/C
compressor pulley assembly should be rotating. If it "cuts out" often, you
have a low refrigerant charge. If it does not turn at all, you have other
problems that a reputable A/C shop should dianose and repair.

My suggestion: take your vehicle to a reputable A/C shop and ask them to
diagnose the problem. If they don't fix it properly, don't pay them. Use a
credit card to keep them honest.

Re: 2000 Cherokee Defrost and AC Problems
 

The steam on the windshield did not come from the heater core. If that is
the reason the replaced the core, then your money and time were wasted.

When the AC stops blwoing cold, raise the hood and check that the AC clutch
is being energized. My guess is that it is not, or that it is firing for a
couple of seconds then resting then repeating. The AC dehumidifies the air,
and the steam on the glass is air that is not dehumidified, meaning the AC
is not working.

I suggest that a 2000 is about ready for a can of R134a.





<wedontdoit@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:1192826920.337901.280930@y27g2000pre.googlegr oups.com...
> Have a ploblem with my 2000 Cherokee - windshield was fogging up
> slightly at the very bottom in the middle, then once while driving in
> heavy rain after about an hour couldn't defrost the windows anymore -
> there seemed to be moist air blowing out, and the smell was different
> - you could smell and feel the moisture in the air, but I didn't think
> it had a coolant smell to it - had to turn off the fan and drive with
> the windows down to keep the windows clear. Air conditioner wasn't
> always cold either - would be cold first thing in the morning as long
> the outside temperature wasn't too hot, but if I was driving much
> during the day, eventually the ac wouldn't blow cold anymore. There
> was never any water on the floor or wet carpets.
>
> Took it to the dealer and they said the heater core was gone and
> replaced it. Got it back with the promise that "your ac is as good as
> the day it was made" ...well, same thing - smell isn't quite as
> pronounced - only after 30 minutes and I get the moist air blowing
> out and fogging up the windows, when it's raining. AC has exactly the
> same problem- cold first thing in the morning, but doesn't last. Been
> back to the dealer three times now - they can't find the problem and
> want me to bring in in on a rainy day so that they can keep it for a
> few days so the tech can take it home and try and experience the
> problem first hand, which of course is inconvenient for me. The first
> time I brought it back with the exact same symptoms, they said that
> the AC clutch might be sticking - I should also replace this -
> however, the price will add another $1000 minimum to the $1500 I've
> already spent.
>
> Any other ideas as to what to check? As it seems to be more
> problematic in rain, is there maybe a blockage somewhere? Did I need
> to change the heater core at all?
>
> Thanks in advance,
> Sheila
>

Re: 2000 Cherokee Defrost and AC Problems
 

The steam on the windshield did not come from the heater core. If that is
the reason the replaced the core, then your money and time were wasted.

When the AC stops blwoing cold, raise the hood and check that the AC clutch
is being energized. My guess is that it is not, or that it is firing for a
couple of seconds then resting then repeating. The AC dehumidifies the air,
and the steam on the glass is air that is not dehumidified, meaning the AC
is not working.

I suggest that a 2000 is about ready for a can of R134a.





<wedontdoit@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:1192826920.337901.280930@y27g2000pre.googlegr oups.com...
> Have a ploblem with my 2000 Cherokee - windshield was fogging up
> slightly at the very bottom in the middle, then once while driving in
> heavy rain after about an hour couldn't defrost the windows anymore -
> there seemed to be moist air blowing out, and the smell was different
> - you could smell and feel the moisture in the air, but I didn't think
> it had a coolant smell to it - had to turn off the fan and drive with
> the windows down to keep the windows clear. Air conditioner wasn't
> always cold either - would be cold first thing in the morning as long
> the outside temperature wasn't too hot, but if I was driving much
> during the day, eventually the ac wouldn't blow cold anymore. There
> was never any water on the floor or wet carpets.
>
> Took it to the dealer and they said the heater core was gone and
> replaced it. Got it back with the promise that "your ac is as good as
> the day it was made" ...well, same thing - smell isn't quite as
> pronounced - only after 30 minutes and I get the moist air blowing
> out and fogging up the windows, when it's raining. AC has exactly the
> same problem- cold first thing in the morning, but doesn't last. Been
> back to the dealer three times now - they can't find the problem and
> want me to bring in in on a rainy day so that they can keep it for a
> few days so the tech can take it home and try and experience the
> problem first hand, which of course is inconvenient for me. The first
> time I brought it back with the exact same symptoms, they said that
> the AC clutch might be sticking - I should also replace this -
> however, the price will add another $1000 minimum to the $1500 I've
> already spent.
>
> Any other ideas as to what to check? As it seems to be more
> problematic in rain, is there maybe a blockage somewhere? Did I need
> to change the heater core at all?
>
> Thanks in advance,
> Sheila
>

Re: 2000 Cherokee Defrost and AC Problems
 

The steam on the windshield did not come from the heater core. If that is
the reason the replaced the core, then your money and time were wasted.

When the AC stops blwoing cold, raise the hood and check that the AC clutch
is being energized. My guess is that it is not, or that it is firing for a
couple of seconds then resting then repeating. The AC dehumidifies the air,
and the steam on the glass is air that is not dehumidified, meaning the AC
is not working.

I suggest that a 2000 is about ready for a can of R134a.





<wedontdoit@hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:1192826920.337901.280930@y27g2000pre.googlegr oups.com...
> Have a ploblem with my 2000 Cherokee - windshield was fogging up
> slightly at the very bottom in the middle, then once while driving in
> heavy rain after about an hour couldn't defrost the windows anymore -
> there seemed to be moist air blowing out, and the smell was different
> - you could smell and feel the moisture in the air, but I didn't think
> it had a coolant smell to it - had to turn off the fan and drive with
> the windows down to keep the windows clear. Air conditioner wasn't
> always cold either - would be cold first thing in the morning as long
> the outside temperature wasn't too hot, but if I was driving much
> during the day, eventually the ac wouldn't blow cold anymore. There
> was never any water on the floor or wet carpets.
>
> Took it to the dealer and they said the heater core was gone and
> replaced it. Got it back with the promise that "your ac is as good as
> the day it was made" ...well, same thing - smell isn't quite as
> pronounced - only after 30 minutes and I get the moist air blowing
> out and fogging up the windows, when it's raining. AC has exactly the
> same problem- cold first thing in the morning, but doesn't last. Been
> back to the dealer three times now - they can't find the problem and
> want me to bring in in on a rainy day so that they can keep it for a
> few days so the tech can take it home and try and experience the
> problem first hand, which of course is inconvenient for me. The first
> time I brought it back with the exact same symptoms, they said that
> the AC clutch might be sticking - I should also replace this -
> however, the price will add another $1000 minimum to the $1500 I've
> already spent.
>
> Any other ideas as to what to check? As it seems to be more
> problematic in rain, is there maybe a blockage somewhere? Did I need
> to change the heater core at all?
>
> Thanks in advance,
> Sheila
>