A/C Clutch Intermittently Does Not Engage (2015 Kia Sportage)

How to test an A/C clutch circuit using just a simple test light. The procedures shown in this video can be applied to any A/C system that uses a magnetic clutch on the compressor.
Video breakdown:
00:30 - 2015 Kia Sportage intermittent A/C blows warm
02:25 - A/C clutch sound test
03:20 - call to the customer (A/C is working, what are we doing?)
05:15 - A/C clutch visual inspection
06:40 - scan tool tests (no communication)
07:20 - Danner singing in the background
08:00 - determining manual or auto A/C system
10:45 - description of an A/C compressor with no clutch
13:30 - inspection camera used to ID clutch wiring
MV500 Digital Inspection Camera with 5-inch screen
tinyurl.com/yyynjpd7
16:00 - A/C clutch power test
18:45 - tap test on the clutch
22:15 - wiring diagram and service information
27:00 - ground circuit test for the A/C clutch
28:15 - testing a circuit with a test light (proper procedures)
30:50 - uTest Terminal kit from AESwave (open circuit test of the clutch itself) tinyurl.com/yydq6lk2
33:25 - open circuit testing with a test light (review on paper)
36:00 - basic electrical classes on ScannerDanner Premium
www.scannerdanner.com/scanner...
38:30 - how to evacuate and recover an A/C system
ScannerDanner Tools:
www.scannerdanner.com/tools.html
www.amazon.com/shop/scannerda...
For more information on this topic, I have written a “field manual” called Engine Performance Diagnostics which is available at www.scannerdanner.com as an eBook or paper book.
Want even more diagnostic training? Whether you are a DIY trying to fix your own car, someone looking to become an auto technician, or a current auto technician that wants to get more into diagnostics, subscribe to ScannerDanner Premium www.scannerdanner.com/join-sc... There is a 14 day free trial.
On ScannerDanner Premium I will bring you right into my classroom at Rosedale Technical College. You will find page for page lectures taken right from my book as well as exclusive classroom type case studies. What is so special about these classroom case studies? I pull live problem vehicles directly into my classroom and we troubleshoot them in real time, using and applying the theory and testing procedures we learn during the classroom lectures. There is no better on-line training of how to troubleshoot automotive electrical and electronics systems anywhere!
Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of ScannerDanner LLC, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. ScannerDanner LLC assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. ScannerDanner LLC recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of ScannerDanner LLC, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not ScannerDanner LLC.

[@jasonc.4683]

Excellent work professor. Thank u. I ran into this 2014 lexus es350 the other day with no A/c operation. This compressor had three separate connectors going to it and to get to these connectors is not easy without saying a whole lot of curse words 😂😂. So I checked for a relay and there's is none. Its internal to the box and I couldn't use my uactivate 😥😥. Now the fun part begins 😁😁. Checked for codes in the HVAC module and a code for "flow sensor" circuit high. Now we are getting somewhere. While In there I checked for other inputs such as evap temp, ambient temp and so on. All looked good except the flow sensor sensor pid which read 3.65 volts. Bi directionally I can command the ac to turn on and off. While doing that I was looking at the flow sensor pid while on and no change. Stayed at 3.65. Alldata didn't have info on this sensor nor a good description or operation. I talked to a buddy and he told me that this sensor is internal to the compressor. Some models u can get away with replacing the sensor but not this one. Computer will not send the signal if it sees anything less than 3.7 volts and i had 3.65 all the time.To the computer it means that some type of flow is going on. All in all with the compressor changed out and looking at the pids again..... the flow sensor pid read 4.5 or 4.8 I dont remember , with the compressor not engaged and with it engaged it dropped to 1 volt. Thought I can share my experience with u even though this little piece of information doesnt even compare not even a little with all u shared and taught all of us. U truly are right professor when u say " just with basic principles and fundamentals u can attack any system". You and ur SD premium really changed my life. God bless

[@ScannerDanner]

This is such an awesome story, thank you for sharing this with us. Would you mind posting this to the feedback page of my website? Either way thank you so much www.scannerdanner.com/leave-read-feedback-new.html

[@jasonc.4683]

@@ScannerDanner Done. Thank u for everything

[@ryandickerson6395]

You can actually change the flow sensor without replacing the compressor. Had a Sienna with no A/C engagement. Flow sensor on eBay was less than $30. Compressor was a lot more than that. It's a simple snap ring holding it in. No refrigerant evacuation necessary.

[@mattlove3833]

No

[@faustogonzalez8397]

@@ryandickerson6395 Great info thank you.

[@shaunsautorepairs5410]

Paul danner doing what he does best... Teaching...many thanks for your time to share what you do

[@PaulysAuto]

Thanks Paul for sharing this with us, great way to start my day...Thursday morning and I am pumped to get to work now! Great video and information to review basic checks! God Bless you and your son!

[@fascistpedant758]

Nice to have you back Caleb! I used to do some still photography and polarizing lens filters sometimes helped in similar lighting conditions. Thanks for another interesting video.

[@8953147]

Glad Caleb is back!! Really appreciate the circuit integrity tests you performed, which shows no guess work just facts!!!

[@SFWD203]

Well done. Excellent description for those not in the know. I’m a life long tech and really enjoyed this video. My wife’s 14 Tucson had sporadic ac loss and I diaged the same issue.

[@TheMykle10]

I've been skimming through all these auto repair KZbin channels and this by far seems to be the best. I enjoy your content and you explain at an entry level which I really appreciate

[@TheMykle10]

I should have formed my post into a question instead of posting it in my comments but anyways..... I have a Buick verano and my wife has a Buick enclave and both vehicles a/c have stopped working. In your experience do you see allot of a/c issues with GM product? Also on the verano not only does the a/c not work but the blower is intermittent which sucks during winter but I noticed if I open the sun roof the blower usually turns on within a few mins.... Does that mean anything ? Is that a temp issue or maybe the bi folds aren't changing ? Any advice would be great

[@blackenigma1054]

i feel that your videos have evolved. coming out of like the class room setting, into the real world examples really wakes up your videos. more mechanics should do it this way and then do a overview at the end. Thanks so much Dan!😄

[@CaptainNero]

My 17 has the same engine.. excellent work mr. Danner..... now I know what I need to do when Mine craps out..

[@MrJgonzalez2]

Great video. From reading your book, I carry different load test lights and use accordingly, learned from the best.

[@johnz8210]

Nice thorough explanation of the a/c clutch circuit. Thanks for the video.

[@andrewk778]

ALWAYS an interesting and informative video. Thank you for sharing. I like the new format of working with your brother. You seem to be happier at this shop.

[@neranjandayananda4712]

Big thanks for the hard work you guys are putung in.

[@EHKOS]

Thank you for going above and beyond on this one!

[@mikejmardis]

Don’t be afraid to keep it Barnie style. Especially when you r doing scope connection points. It makes for a good refresher and new info for new subscribers

[@kingbolen_official]

Clear voice,clear diagnosis process.Thanks!

[@ansarijaved]

There is a loooooottttt of learning in this video... Thank you so much ♥️

[@nemanjadzombic6101]

Perfect video and perfect explanation on the paper as always!!!

[@fixitman8028]

Thanks for the video and explainations. Currently working a Ford Focus with similar issue. I have been a premium subscriber for several months. Always great information. Please keep posting and God bless

[@VictorALopez140]

Excellent video! Your ability to teach and ensure understanding is priceless!!! Thanks!!!

[@ScannerDanner]

I appreciate that!

[@salimalmazrui9794]

Hi, i am from the Sultanate of Oman, you are great, you teach every possible to troubleshoot problems, i always refer to your videos to diagnose my car and most the you techniques confirm my old skills in fixing my cars. You are GREAT. MAY GOD BLESS YOU. You are my first person i refer to before i begin to troubleshoot.

[@ScannerDanner]

Thank you my brother from another country. God bless you too

[@michaelsheehan2893]

Great video Scanner Danner! You have a great way of explaining things.

[@toutsandler3739]

I m getting addicted to the content you re making 😁. Thanks.

[@ScannerDanner]

thanks so much!

[@luismarty1685]

Thank you, Caleb and Paul. Another outstanding video.

[@weldingjunkie]

Great job Paul, “Dan” LoL that Autel is really cool I think I might get one. Thanks for sharing brother! Welcome back Caleb.

[@jackmanfredo1215]

Great info Paul and Caleb, very entertaining as well. Thanks!

[@heyitschinoable]

Great video. I made a couple test lights load lights to check circuits. I always like to load them with a good amperage test light just to confirm circuit integrity.

[@Pablo_Automotive]

Thanks Paul and Caleb another Great job ☺🔧👌

[@SmittySmithsonite]

Good stuff as always, brother! Glad Caleb is back in action to take the load off your back. Geesh, last time I saw a red ground was on a Chinese ATV! A "SUNL" brand, lol. Right from the factory, that turd had too small of a stator to even charge the battery ... and then they added headlights and brake lights to it, LOL! Then the RED ground wire and BLACK power wire to the ignition switch had cracked solder joints so bad that the wires were just hanging by one strand each. Makes me think it was built by Dorman ... 🤣 That time of year for A/C stuff! Just did a '99 F-150 that miraculously held vacuum for over 20 minutes. High side line was extremely rusty (steel - nice work, Ford!) - figured it wasn't even going to hold vacuum ... but it did. Held the charge too. Blowing 55°F at idle, fan on high, at 85° ambient - works for me. Customer wanted a quick fix for a road trip this weekend. We'll see how long it stays in there. You and the family have a great Independence Day, in case I don't get to comment until then. 🍻 May God bless all of you.

[@wyattoneable]

30th! (ha ha) But I stayed here for the entire video so I win. Nice to have Caleb back. Great that you asked the customer for more information. I can see how "direction" is important. That's a cool camera. You went "above and beyond" to check that ground but you know we appreciate the theory and the circuit design.

[@robertmaciver130]

SD your a great teacher. ask calib . you rock safety frist.love this farther/son interaction.

[@freeusnow6804]

I have to just add that Again..the camera work on each component..is the best..keep up the good work brother.

[@ScannerDanner]

don't watch anything before 2016 :-) content has always been good though but we are starting to get really good in the camera and editing work, thanks in large part to my son Caleb!!

[@spelunkerd]

I think max AC is programmed to require air flow, because without air flow the evaporator will ice up to the point that AC stops working. So, they don't let the driver accidentally choose that option. Thanks for bringing us along, it is good to have Caleb back!

[@tedcampbell-sq8qr]

hi guys i love the way you detail stuff timely keep up the good work

[@bwdz75]

In Kia cars the A/C is under the engine data, it will have the system pressure and whether the ECU is sending the signal to the clutch. The AC in the Autel is for the automatic climate control. If you have the factory Kia tool you can monitor data from multiple modules at the same time, you pick which data PIDs you want from each module you selected for a custom list, I am sure you can imagine how handy that is in other situations such as having trans and ABS and engine data at same time. On top of all that if you google Kia SST040 you will find the Kia harness the dealers have for the 2 types of plugs that come on the last decade worth of their compressors and it is just a basic battery hook up with a toggle switch and the plug to the compressor to cycle the A'C clutch or send full power to the ECV which by the way is duty cycle controlled. Great work figuring it out on your own as usual, hence why I love your videos.

[@GtrailLotFunkcrewband]

Yeah ScannerDanner, I learned this time really good. especially when you used the "Water Hose" as an example of how and what electronic's does when it's something of resistance or a break in a circuit. I hope i made sense to a pro like you ScannerDanner. Thank You very much for shooting this video. It will stay in my liked video's

[@victorlewis8970]

Thank you for all this information.

[@ramonacevedobravo4398]

You guys make a good team guys....hello from Oregon.

[@yeahboy28100]

That was excellent!! I went to electronics in school. I'm Jersey, I understood everything that you were doing. I must say, I miss it. I worked for Canon copiers an also Xerox. Now I drive a truck, I'm a owner operator.

[@joedirt1712]

Thank u you. Love you videos. The more u learn the more you earn

[@onnielgarcia183]

Exelente video danner very well explained I like very much how you explain on paper how to test the components of the clutch coil awesome like it very much

[@DanVillarreal1988]

Love the videos! Tons of knowledge and know how. I would love to be able to afford a lab scope but I have to make due with a voltmeter. Please continue teaching us your wisdom, Thank you :)

[@thomasburns6559]

Again the other things u talked about made me forward to the end. please dude. Ur a great tech stay on subject

[@mariogonzales5473]

very nice video thanks for that last explanation really made the connection in my brain

[@georgebonney90]

Thank u mr danner and caleb 👍

[@BFN1974]

this great class >>> fantastic lesson thank you very much prof

[@BigDog50001]

Nice job Paul!

[@jameslewis1175]

Hey man thanks for pushing so much content on ac. I'm really trying to up my ac game as the heat is coming

[@philipar6787]

You're the Greatest Paul thank you very much

[@virtisconsole12]

Wow Paul your content and commentary is really amazing and so well translated to myself as a long experienced DIYer guy and I know that less experienced people are learning from you.. I primarily work on VAG and Asian cars but have been watching a lot of your A/C videos and have learned a lot .. just about to get a recovery machine (Mastercool commander 2000) from a buddy he doesn’t need it anymore and is selling it for good $$.. would love to see some recovery videos if you have any.. again great diagnosis here with the clutch .. your stuff is so great.. love it

[@VoltageDropDiagnostics]

When you were about to lay on the ground to pick up the front probe that you dropped, I bet you instantly became thankful to now have access to a shop, and no longer need to lay on the ground, in the snow, checking fuel pumps! haha! Kudos Paul! Great video!

[@ScannerDanner]

Remind me who you are again? Is this PJ?

[@VoltageDropDiagnostics]

ScannerDanner it is! But seriously! I couldn’t imagine dealing with some of the conditions that I seen you work in. No more snow, no more rain, no more mud, or cold! I’m glad to see you and your brother owning the shop.

[@LuisRodriguez-qg8ci]

Hey Danner, regarding the bolt spinning. If everything always worked good everyone would be in the repair business. Things like that keep you from getting bored . Keep up the good work and don’t forget to keep smiling.

[@megadeth1763]

Spot-on via the finest mech-tech on YT. Thank you for everything Best from the Best. While thinking out kloud is one of these things we need out here. Lost without!! ..thank you.

[@ScannerDanner]

Glad you liked it! Thank you

[@Buckwsr]

Hi Paul, This video came precisely when I needed it. My 1995 Olds Ninety-Eight Regency is doing intermittent a/c, compressor not always coming on. The stick trick came in handy, compressor engages when I hit it with a stick! Ha ha. I'm hoping I can change out that clutch without removing the compressor, as that would mean finding a shop to evacuate the system for me. I should have enough room. Engine compartment is big on this car.... Thanks.

[@crpth1]

Buckwsr - For what it's worth. Most times when the clutch is "stuck" and the bumping with the broom stick produce the desired effect. The problem can be traced back to dirt. All the road debris over the years eventually get between the clutch body and clutch coil. With this said, simple disassemble, clean, put it back together. Tend to solve the issue. Tip: If your vehicle came equipped with the plastic under tray cover, KEEP IT IN PLACE. Saves a lot of head aches over time. ;-) Cheers

[@dionybarte9087]

Scanner danner thank you soo much for your knowledge video.i am the one of student on your KZbin channel.thanks goodbless

[@apostolismitsopoulos3593]

I just love you!! Cheers from Greece!

[@brycethoreson9216]

Thanks for explaining it in different way and drawing it out. I think I get it now

[@ScannerDanner]

You're very welcome!

[@danielwardle5374]

watching every video all over again that you from the UK 🇬🇧

[@danielwardle5374]

thank you I was meaning to say not that 👈🤣🤦‍♂️

[@noelhernandez5016]

Changed many coil fields on a/c compressor for hyundai tucson. It uses same system as Kia. New systems use Variable displacement compressor( wobble plate kind)with control valve. System also uses expansion valve.

[@nickwilson1476]

**video looks 1,000% better* * Paul within 5 seconds: "my camera man is with me."

[@roderickrecimo5069]

wew ! i have the same problem with my car right now. i hope this will solve my problem. thank you for this video.

[@nicknicu1787]

Great video,very well explained so that everyone understands. If I didn’t know you’re a teacher I would tell you you should become one.. 👍

[@ScannerDanner]

thank you Nick

[@sparkyobrian1383]

got your book- fantastic resource

[@coolbreeze1774]

Hey Paul and Caleb: I remember the grams to pounds conversion (approximation) by remembering the ‘454’ engine ... (454 grams approx = 1 pound). To be more exact its 453.59 grams to calibrate a machine for example, but for simple shop math the ‘454’ works for me. Keep up the good work !

[@billrimmer5596]

Mr Coolbreeze. The 454 is indelibly etched in my memory. Thank u!! Noah’s ark was a 440. Approx 440 feet long. Thanx!!

[@jaysoddA4]

Finally a newer vehicle . Start to phase out the vintage stuff . Always enjoy watching

[@ScannerDanner]

Funny thing is, all of this, every procedure shown, is the same exact tests that I would have done on a 20 year old car too. The year of the car is not important when it comes to learning your fundamentals.

[@radman999]

Most cars are using variable displacement/clutchless now.

[@jaysoddA4]

As a 25 year BMW dealer tech this guys telling me to learn my fundamentals . Start getting into more complex job with more HS and MS can network where one module ends up taking down networks . Or parasitic draws

[@ScannerDanner]

Not sure where this went south, never said you personally should learn your fundamentals. That was a general comment. Not everyone knows what you know. And as a 25 year tech you would also then know that CAN networks are nothing special and the same fundamentals we've always used for troubleshooting can be applied.

[@adoryalsalim4114]

I love your chanel, evry video i learn more thank you

[@glennramsey917]

Greetings from East Tn ....Thanks for the free education .. oh btw when I learned your teaching your son how to work on cars you got the dad of a lifetime award in my book ..lol .. not many dad's want to teach kids the profession and not many kids are willing to learn ..my hats off to Caleb for the roll he played in Hi School band .. I know a lil bit about what that teaches kids and it's alot ..ALOT more than just playing a musical instrument ....

[@ScannerDanner]

working with my son and my brother is such a blessing to me, thank you!

[@puremotivation1887]

You got some serious skills you're blessed

[@fermate1991]

My English is bad, but I love your videos friend...

[@johnavila7942]

Another awesome video 😁

[@154Jamesp]

Great job Kaleb!

[@James-fs4rn]

👍Good stuff as always. Thank you!

[@thomasboyd72]

Always good info well done sir

[@aceforever001]

Long video, but really awesome to listen to you. Subscribing!

[@ScannerDanner]

You'll get used to it my friend, thank you!

[@abubakarisadiqueibrahim481]

Good job i love this piece, made the whole thing looked so simple. thumbs up

[@chrisb8424]

Your brothers beard is awesome. That's come from a guy that has not shaved since 2011.

[@abdalqadr1]

You do great job 💪 thanks Sir

[@MrTwisted1977]

Fantastic as always nice to see ur still posting content on ur KZbin channel for all us cheapskates that can't afford or are too tightfisted to subscribe to ur paid channel.Well Done!!

[@ScannerDanner]

37 cents a day :-) That is what it costs to be an SD Premium member

[@JOHNPHUFNAGEL]

@@ScannerDanner You sound like one of those Feed The Children commercials from the 80's. For less than a cup of coffee a day You can be a Scanner Danner Premium Member LOL

[@ScannerDanner]

Lol

[@misterhandy5121]

Paul for the win !!!!! caleb welcome back !!!!! we all were waiting for that ground check lol , Paul for President !!!!

[@ScannerDanner]

lol I knew it

[@misterhandy5121]

@@ScannerDanner Its just that you always teach us to confirm all steps , so with that said that ground was a must lol but we all knew the clutch was gone !!! thanks for your continued lessons !!! ok back to the premium channel I go, got lots of videos to catch up on !!!!!!

[@ScannerDanner]

@@misterhandy5121 awesome! Thanks so much for supporting me

[@edmundochaparro-barriguete1215]

Thank you so much for your troubles.

[@byoung9627]

I think this is one good application for a power probe. Just to give it a ground. Although I learned an open ground would have lit your light.

[@Bluewrench61]

In cases like this I would check the current flow after the voltage measurement and not have to get to the wires or connectors at the buried compressor. Many times the clutch shoe gap is too wide from wear and the clutch coil can't overcome the gap and draw it in. Sometimes if you push in the clutch shoe and not tap on the compressor while its running they will engage. Current flow determines whether I pull it apart for further inspection. Most draw about 3-4 amps warm.

[@isettech]

A small DC amp clamp can work wonders when checking clutches like that. If the voltage is on and there is current in the wire, the coil is energized. No need to check the ground as it is present to complete the circuit. The current can be tested upstream at the controlling relay. Does the clutch draw power? If it does not draw power, the problem is electrical. If it does draw power, it is mechanical.

[@belindaleopard3627]

Question.. My 07 Corolla with approx. 312k mile recently was blowing warm until I changed the alternator and belt. The wires you showed in 15:37 is hard to orient where you are looking. It reminds me of my alternator positive and regulator..? There was a connector further down on the compressor itself. I am curious, I have seen numerous videos on KZbin regarding AC issues but no one questions the alternator and whether it is generating enough volts to run everything properly under load. Now grant it, I seem to keep getting alts that the regulator reads failed under load, three consecutive weekends I have changed out the alt. for that reason. I am begining to wonder if it is wiring. Mine also does the intermittent like his, more now then before I changed the alt., but mine tends to kick the clutch on after driving several minutes to miles at higher speeds then blows cold, but not always consistently off. Your thoughts on the alternator relationship. BTW, love the videos!

[@hatfez]

Love the old "Dorman" cabinets in the shop, back when Dorman made quality products!

[@tashfeenazhar763]

Its a great info and I recently do on Toyota avlone same sumptuous and you are great teacher

[@tashfeenazhar763]

Sir check this (Autoscope technology ) it's have a very unique in autoscope I send the mail to your inbox please reply me

[@ScannerDanner]

@@tashfeenazhar763 I just replied, make sure you check your spam folder and add [e-mail] as a contact okay?

[@djlowman9159]

Hi Danner. Where do I find your test lamp in Canada?

[@mr.technician4144]

Sir I am one of your follower on youtube and I'm very glad that you've made educational videos that I'ved learned a lot. I'm also a technician on GM company here in middle east...can you please sir made a video on how to service a/c system using manifold gauge from recovering the freon,vacuum the system,injectect oil using manifold gauge,then recharge the system.....thanks sir godbless

[@ScannerDanner]

This is part 1 of a 3 part series on a Jeep where I am doing the things you are asking for kzbin.info/www/bejne/oIWkl4yArrWhn68

[@isabelosaguionjr6161]

awesome very technically informative!

[@johnreid859]

Thanks for going the distance on the ground.

[@jrfmechanical3058]

Don't forget the refrigerant oil. Pag, I assume for the compressor.. Good video troubleshooting.

[@ivanblack3234]

Awesome info!

[@tendossenono6647]

ThanK you professor am TENDO from uganda

[@user-io3hw7hx7q]

Awesome outstanding job thanks

[@mathewboyer5141]

At 06:16 what was that word you used? Are you part PA dutch Paul? Haha. Very good information here as usual. Thanks for sharing!!!!!

[@macknumber9]

I have a 2012 optima that I believe needs a solenoid valve or compressor. It is a clutchless system. Any tips to diagnosing if i need to replace the valve versus replacing the much more costly compressor. Definitely don't want to be a parts changer guessing because I will not only waste money on the valve if it didn't fix the problem but I will also waste money on the refrigerant evacuate and recharge because I will have to do it twice.

[@kyoukai11]

that ecv valve can make problems like everythings work right but there is not too much air cold into the car so at that you have to take it off and replace the o ring in ecv valve and clean him and get it back or you just replace the compressor and it work again properly he is controler of gaz from compressor chamber so when he blocked on the compressor don't work correctly the clutch is another things you need to power on that's all nice videos you made bro gg

[@paulfiebke3909]

Keep up the good work

[@fire7765]

Great video.

[@MichaelDavis-jg4my]

Excellent work I have a 2011 Kia stop working replaced front and back blower resistors still not working AC goes on for a few seconds and then it's off clutch engages releases from what I understand AC blower and resistor are different is it controlled by the compressor or the pressure switch I'm talking about the blower motor and resistor now I might have a short is what's causing the air conditioning blinkers headlights windshield wipers they're all not working correctly wipers hesitate to go headlights fade blink