Uncool car

I just bought a 1999V Ford Cougar, full service history, excellent condition throughout, but aircon not working. Just been to Kwik fit to recharge the gas, but got it for free because the air didn’t get any cooler. They said the pump was going in and out but no cooler air coming through. On tickover there is a noticeable ticking sound coming from the belt area every few minutes, until you give it higher revs, then you cannot hear it. Could this noise be to do with the air con not working as it should? Is there anything I can try?

Asked on 19 June 2010 by MB, via email

Answered by Honest John

Good looking car. Could be that the clutch of the a/c pump has failed. This often happens and the standard replacement in the UK is a new pump at around £700, when all that is really required is a new pump clutch at around £100. Get it to an a/c specialist.

Tags: air con technical issues owning

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