2017 - Anyone have A/C problem after condensor recall?

My AC wasn't working right for a couple of years. I took in in for the condenser recall but it still wasn't working correctly. It would get cold at first but after a few minutes it would blow warm air. I had to figure it out myself. The AC clutch was the cultprit. It would engage initially but would stop working after getting hot. When your AC is not working, pop the hood while it's still running and see if the compressor is spinning. If not, there's your answer.

Thanks, the compressor is working. The air gets cooler as I drive faster, which is normal to some degree, it just never gets cold enough and it's not really very cold at all during idle. I assume that's because there's too little refrigerant circulating.

I had my condenser replaced last year as well, A/C worked beautifully for the remainder of last summer. Now, this spring, I'm noticing that it "short cycles" cold air when the compressor kicks on and off, regardless of where the temperature is set or if recirculation is used.

I'll update if I learn anything more in the coming weeks.

CGumina said:

I had my condenser replaced last year as well, A/C worked beautifully for the remainder of last summer. Now, this spring, I'm noticing that it "short cycles" cold air when the compressor kicks on and off, regardless of where the temperature is set or if recirculation is used.

I'll update if I learn anything more in the coming weeks.

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Do you know if they put dye in your system and checked for leaks when they replaced your condensor? I didn't ask at the time, I'm wondering if that's a standard thing to do with that kind of repair.

An ac leak test should be done but usually not with ac part recalls unless you ask for it specifically. Dealerships just want to get the work completed and go. A leak test requires more labor time so they don’t do it.

Unfortunately, you’ll have to pay the shop for the leak test, which may not show the problem. Subaru was having problems with the compressor and condenser. Lots of updates. The condenser could be ok but the compressor may be faulty. 2014-2017.

Our '17 had the condenser replaced under warranty, then again under the recall. The A/C performance had fallen off between the two. So far after the recall replacement condenser was replaced, it seems to be holding up. Considering it has just over 8000 miles, it's a wonder the seals are still holding up from lack of use.

Can a slow leak in the a/c system cause poor a/c performance? Obviously yes, no further discussion needed. Is it the only possible cause of poor a/c performance? Obviously no, other things can cause that too. So in your case, there is 100% chance that diagnosis is required. Be patient until after you get that done.

Dealer said it was a little low on refrigerant, it was charged one year ago in May when they replaced the condensor, so either it's a really slow leak or it just started recently. They evacuated it and recharged with dye. He said as soon as I notice a loss in cooling to bring it back and they'll look for a leak, he said it might take months if it's that slow a leak. He said the compressor is cycling properly and clutch clearance is correct, and no other obvious problems. $185 for the work. Perfect timing, we're getting a heat wave next week.