How to fix the AC on your Volvo 850, S70, V70, V70R, V70XC, etc. Troubleshooting, examples etc. VOTD

In this video I show how to get the AC working on your Volvo 850, S70, V70, V70R, V70XC, XC70, GLT, etc.
Service the AC: • How to recharge the ba...
Shim the compressor: • AC turns off while dri...
Replace the AC drier: • How to replace the AC ...
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Disclaimer: • In this video I share ...
Basic car care KZbin channel: / rspiwin
How to search my videos: • How to find videos on ...
Visit my Website for special tools, my wish list and other helpful information: www.RobertDIY.com
Support Robert, become a Patron: / robertdiyafterdark

[@thomasfinney1900]

Robert is a genius,, I’d buy this guy dinner any day of the week.

[@RobertDIY]

thanks.

[@rj3969]

I just bought a 98 V70, waiting for it to arrive. I know the A/C isn’t working, I’m crossing my fingers it just needs some refrigerant 🤞 Thank you for taking the time to do these videos Robert! They are invaluable! 😄

[@RobertDIY]

you are welcome.

[@janoshaas5533]

As a proud owner of a 850 T5 and a normal 850, i am soo grateful to have you! ❤

[@RobertDIY]

thanks for watching.

[@jorgeduarte916]

Thank you Robert. All your videos are highly appreciated.

[@RobertDIY]

Thanks for watching.

[@sylvesterfurtak5306]

Thank you I wish more people were like you. You helped me tremendously with my 2000 Volvo V70 XC. Now I have to fix my compressor.

[@RobertDIY]

You are welcome!

[@da7848]

Just what we love....clear, simple and right to the point😌

[@RobertDIY]

Thanks for watching

[@heitmaja1]

Brilliant diagnostics, Robert! You are a good teacher.

[@RobertDIY]

Thanks.

[@jayyingling6702]

Liked your daughters S70 comment. My daughters S70 compressor tied up. I shopped around and found quality replacement parts and with the help of your previous videos I did the job myself.

[@RobertDIY]

That is awesome!

[@nandansho]

Hi Robert I've never owned a Volvo in my life but ever since I bought one, I really love and appreciate the simplicity of these cars so smooth and I love thee ergonomic design of the interior of these vehicles. My S60 has 200,000 miles on it I've owned it for a month now and I like it better than a Mercedes. I really want an S60R or a 8 cylinder S80 now.

[@RobertDIY]

Sweet!

[@tjurostas3704]

@@RobertDIY hey robert my volvo s70 1998 b5244 runs on 4 cylinder sometimes, do you know what the problem could be? I have replaced the sparkplugs and it have sparks and the fuel injectors seems to be good

[@sarkybugger5009]

Yeah Baby! Groovy. Thanks for this, Robert.

[@RobertDIY]

thanks for watching.

[@user-qb8mj3nd6x]

BRAVO!!!......A Professor at his Craft

[@RobertDIY]

Thanks for watching

[@supmahhenn]

This really helped me! Thanks 🇸🇪

[@RobertDIY]

You're welcome!

[@sonicstep]

Very interesting viewing. My 850's A.C. hasn't worked for many years. There aren't that many weeks in a typical U.K. summer when I could really do with it so not bothered. However, having visited Toronto Ontario a few times and N.Y. once, I recognise in those parts it's essential.

[@RobertDIY]

Especially for defrost.

[@plentyponies5886]

My son just bought a 850 20v yesterday as he liked my v70 R, been watching your vids great instruction, just subscribed thanks for you uploads keep them coming its nice to watch hope you still got the volvo regards.

[@RobertDIY]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/naWcqGCQiN2mb6s

[@RobertDIY]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/f3aWlWCmm5eUd7s

[@RobertDIY]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y2PSeph_ndWJapY

[@jarrettba]

Robert, I believe I have a 98 v70 you owned. I bought it off your nephew last year. Love your videos. Id love to make a video introduction for your KZbin channel for free. Just a thank you for keeping all the beautiful boxes up and running.

[@RobertDIY]

My nephew?

[@RobertDIY]

Send me an email or text.

[@jarrettba]

Whats a good email?

[@kawakuru]

Awesome video Thanks Robert. 👍👍👍🎯🏆

[@RobertDIY]

You are welcome

[@ArctoolsMedia]

I would add one more thing to your list. Reboot the ECM (engine control computer). I had an issue where the fuse feeding the ECC blew. Replaced it. Everything worked except the a/c compressor wouldn't kick in. I replaced the high pressure switch... the a/c relay... I shorted the low pressure switch.. replaced the ECC (climate control panel in the dash)... nothing nothing nothing. The compressor worked (tested by shorting the relay pins). but the relay was never getting the GO signal. I removed the ECM, cleaned the contacts with spray contact cleaner that you can get from the hardware store. Let it sit a few minutes to 'forget' everything. Reconnected. BINGO! Compressor comes on. Now I was back to the situation where the compressor would only engage for 5 seconds, off for 10. It was the low pressure switch. Low on freon. Recharged. Back in busines. To reboot the ECM - either pull it (not a bad idea, and clean the contacts while you're at it), or disconnect the battery for a few minutes. But you still get the credit since this video pointed me to the ECM. You are THE MAN.

[@RobertDIY]

Thanks for sharing. My ECU is going bad and often locks out the AC. Usually when over 90 degrees. :(

[@dannymeil3294]

Great job very educational

[@RobertDIY]

Thanks for watching

[@peterhandelson1193]

Fantastic video

[@RobertDIY]

Thanks for watching

[@dillane7119]

You the man!

[@RobertDIY]

Thanks for watching

[@ericanderson4460]

Very helpful got to have Airconditioning

[@RobertDIY]

True.

[@tracymoton415]

Thank you Robert! Excellent video for my 2000 Volvo S70, you are a great presenter. My AC has slowly warmed over the last 2 summers. Not driving it much during the pandemic. There is a clicking noise (every 4 to 5 seconds) when AC is turned on, clicking stops when it turns off. Is that symptom related to low refrigerant?

[@RobertDIY]

yes

[@Masterstrange879]

Hi Robert and fellow volvo people. I have an 1994 855 T5. My AC compressor rattles/skims/chatters when i come to a stop. Could it be misaligned? or would a too tightly spaced clutch makes skimming noises? Has no gas in it yet. When I brought it, it had a brand new ac compressor installed by the previous owner that resurrected it. Greatly appreciate what you do Robert. You have been somewhat my guide through the ownership of my volvo.

[@RobertDIY]

Huh? What shims? Why should a "new compressor" have shims or the pulley chatter? You can post a video on KZbin and send the link with a new fresh post.

[@Twobarpsi]

Now you're 😎😎😎😎 cool!

[@RobertDIY]

mission. lol

[@AP-er6mh]

Thank you

[@RobertDIY]

You're welcome

[@markcars7749]

Thanks BOSS

[@RobertDIY]

Any time

[@mclovin1558]

Hi Robert, Your videos are a lifeline in this day and age. Cheers! My AC (ECC) keeps kicking in and out every few seconds when I'm at freeway speeds, power slips noticeably as well as the clicking noise behind the dashboard. Doesn't cut off for good, the AC always kicks back in without fail. No leaks, new condensor, local Volvo specialist and AC garage have had the car and had no luck. Any idea where to look next?

[@RobertDIY]

Besides not knowing what vehicle you have, has it been scanned with a Volvo class scanner?

[@summerofsteroids]

Robert, excellent video!!! How do we test the high pressure switch if the low pressure switch is good?

[@RobertDIY]

I don't know.

[@arthur850_]

Hi Robert. Since we bought our 850. The AC works! But sadly the air that is coming out of the vents, is not very cold... Maybe refill the system? It has been serviced like around 3 years ago and the compressor just kicks on nicely on and off but it kicks in on and off quite frequently. That is probably my sign to fill the system up again so I'll have ice cold air again hopefully!

[@RobertDIY]

needs to be serviced

[@liampower3581]

Thanks for the video Robert! I have determined my low pressure switch is bad, can I get away with leaving the switch jumped 24/7 or should I look into replacing it?

[@RobertDIY]

replace

[@delukxy]

When you bridged 30 and 87, do you think that reset a switch in the computer? I'm sure you have a spare computer and may even have a spare relay too. Maybe swap either or both if it happens again sometime down the line. I'm wondering if some of the fixes that you did during your diagnosis videos weren't necessary, changing the dryer for instance. This video very useful. My V70 P80 currently lacking AC but not so desperate in the UK. Clutch shims are my first job as the gap is huge!

[@RobertDIY]

Oh, I'm sure I wasted time and money trying to figure this out. My guess was that the system was clogged, and since I was going to replace that orifice tube, I'd replace the drier because all of the PRO's say it should be replaced any time the system is cracked. My system was old and cracked before and was still blowing ice cold.

[@theasim3757]

Hello Robert you've helped me over the years. I have a 1996 Volvo 850 and the blower motor keeps running when I turn the car on. When I try to use the ECC to turn down the fan speed or turn on the AC nothing happens. Basically the ECC is not working but my blower motor stays on. Any idea what this may be? Can the ECC be repaired? Seem a little pricey on Ebay. Thanks in advance.

[@RobertDIY]

My guess would be that the J relay under the fuse panel top is bad. Pull and replace it.

[@anthonyherrera5760]

Hi rober I have 1997 Volvo 850 got I looking to change the pressure switches on the low and high switch and I look under my hood and they look alike do I just buy two pressure switch or are they different kind of switches

[@RobertDIY]

They're different.

[@j.b.9581]

Hello Robert DIY, I have an '04 XC70 wagon and when the AC or the heater is on, and turn up the blower, the fan inside the dashboard vibrates. HOW can I get to that fan to either oil it, or set it straight so it does not wobble. Thank you, Robert!

[@RobertDIY]

Sadly I don't have a video for that and have not had to replace one. Plan to replace it ASAP

[@NickD-cg6ov]

I’ve changed my low pressure switch a couple of years ago. Now I think my high pressure switch is bad can I check if it’s bad with the paper clip to jump it to see if the compressor comes on?

[@RobertDIY]

I don't think so, just check the Freon level.

[@rickkstir]

Hi Robert, any video for the zip tie fix and does a paper clip really work as a jump? My S70 compressor starts randomly and cuts in and out randomly (not tied to acceleration) while driving. I have a P0531 code : A/C refrigerant pressure sensor “A” Circuit Range.

[@RobertDIY]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/naWcqGCQiN2mb6s

[@jrngunnarskorgevik2072]

Does the high- and low-pressure valves always self-close, so you do not need to empty the system prior to replacing them?? Mine is a volvo v70 2008 2.0D d4204t version.

[@RobertDIY]

I am not sure but I do believe that the switches are.

[@franks5553]

Hey Robert, Have you ever disconnected the evaporator and then sprayed some stop leak only in it to fix a small leak?

[@RobertDIY]

red angel ac stop leak

[@drj2162]

Where is the low pressure port on a 2007 V70R, i can't find it. thank you. btw that AC Clutch works like a charm for 3 years now. saved me $1200/ Thank you

[@RobertDIY]

Probably in the front of the car behind the head light.

[@ingolfurt.jorgensson2660]

Hi Robert I see the engine computer is modified there is a switch an a vacuum pipe. Can you direct to modification information ?

[@RobertDIY]

Vast tuning.

[@delukxy]

Can the LP and HP switches be swapped without losing refrigerant on a 2007 XC70 AWD?

[@RobertDIY]

I think so.

[@bobthebuildersmother_263]

So with the engine running, ac switch on, I have: 12v on pin 30 and no resistance an pin 85. But I don't have 12v on pin 86. You said if I don't have 12v on pin 30 or 86 I have a power problem. Could you help narrow it down? Wires to check, fuses, releys etc.

[@RobertDIY]

Hmmm, you may want to call me.

[@peterdchamberlain]

Hi Robert I believe I'm having an A/C clutch problem because of the symptoms you mentioned.You mentioned a hack with Zip ties.Do you have a video that explains how to do it ? Much thanks !

[@RobertDIY]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/naWcqGCQiN2mb6ssi=YIF1-OxONGPyTTeW

[@RobertDIY]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJaqYqiHnrKbo5osi=ElJi2N15KTMAton7

[@ericmci]

Thanks for the video. My compressor is coming my refrigerant levels are good and my ac is cold but when the temps are in the 90s it goes down to almost nothing until I shit it off for about 15 mins then cold again for 20 and repeat. But when it isn't super hot out it stays cool driving all day. Any ideas? Thanks!

[@RobertDIY]

Bad compressor or clutch gap.

[@ericmci]

@@RobertDIY It definitely could be but runs totally fine in 90 degree weather and under all day? I was suspecting high pressure switch? Is there a way to test for sure?

[@ericmci]

Also thought I should clean the fins on the condenser- they don't look especially dirty but it couldn't hurt.

[@robertberes7402]

Hy Robert! Love videos, i hope you can help me with my V70 AirCon. The AC is working fine, blows cold, new clutch, 2 years old refrigerant, pressure switch tested, cooling fan good, kick-down fuction working, ac switches on and off as it should, no problems with it whatsoever, but when the ac is on the idle rpm drops to 600. The iac not compensating for the ac load. Without AC the idle is fine. Its like the ECU not aware that the AC is on. What can cause such anomaly? If you have any idea please tell me. Thank you sir!

[@RobertDIY]

What year is the car? Sounds like the ECU or MAF is bad.

[@robertberes7402]

@@RobertDIY its a 98 V70, automatic, b5252fs engine, european market. No maf sensor, there is a manifold pressure sensor, and a intake air temp sensor, both of them newish, not older than 1 year. Thanks!

[@robertberes7402]

Some update happened. It was a vacuum leak, the vacuum tree o-ring was bad. Thanks!

[@katentropy]

I think I have a refrigerant leak, first noticed when the A/C is turned on, small droplets start appearing on the windshield, then the refrigerant is gone. Are the droplets (thicker than water) from rhe evaporator behind the dashboard, or, is that a secondary effect of a refrigerant leak elsewhere? TY.

[@RobertDIY]

I have no idea

[@mattc6104]

Can you explain or show what you zip tie on the AC compressor. Thanks.

[@RobertDIY]

Is the link in the description area?

[@RobertDIY]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/naWcqGCQiN2mb6s

[@TheOneJPtv]

WOW, my AC symptom on my S70 is just like you described, cycles on for 20 minutes then shuts off but comes back on later. the Shop tried to sell me new compressor (go figure) but your troubleshooting of the fuses, relays, switches, recharge and zip tie methods sounds more like what I need to do FIRST. I know my compressor works so the shop is lying to me like most mechanics do. *Can you PLEASE do a video on the zip tie compressor clutch fix as I’m almost certain that’s my issue OR the fuses, switch issue. Because I KNOW my compressor is working.

[@TheOneJPtv]

Also, do you recommend those ac recharge cans at Autozone?

[@RobertDIY]

That video is linked in the description as well as suggested as a pop up on the end of this video.

[@RobertDIY]

The cans work fine, just have to take your time and use the adapter with the pressure gauge on it. Try to avoid cans with sealer or dye in them. It probably doesn't need serviced once you install the zip ties.

[@jimbravo5261]

Where is the pressure sensor located and how do you reair any videos

[@RobertDIY]

If you don't see it in the video, I don't know.

[@mohdizzat1243]

Hi robert,i have some problem A/c at my v70 p80..where the cut off sensor when the AC is on?its still running until my cooling coil freeze..i cant find it where..thanks

[@RobertDIY]

I have no idea what a cut off sensor is.

[@peterberry4051]

Hi it's pete I have a problem with my volvo v70 heater the air conditioning system works to well i can't get the heating to blow hot can you please give me your ideas what the problem could be thank you PB

[@RobertDIY]

I don't even know what car you have...

[@rickkstir]

Hi Robert, you tested the low pressure switch with a paper clip. Should I test the high pressure switch in the same manner?

[@RobertDIY]

No sir, not sure how to test it.

[@rickkstir]

@@RobertDIY Thank you, also can I use the paper clip on the relay behind the glove box to jump and possibly fix mine as you fixed yours?

[@bryankemp7159]

Do you know the Part Number for the high and low pressure switches?

[@RobertDIY]

Did you check those videos?

[@opeyemijoshua7148]

Good day Robert. My AC efficiency started declining, I didn't use it for about a month. I later resumed using the AC, the left half started cooling but the right have just didn't cool. What might be the likely cause?

[@opeyemijoshua7148]

Mine is Volvo s60 2002, 2.4 litre AWD

[@RobertDIY]

Probably the blend door motors.

[@850r2]

I'm needing tge pulley bearing replacement for the compressor, anyone know the specs or part number? Its whining big time.

[@RobertDIY]

Hmmm, I do not.

[@viewfromear]

Hi Robert, I’ve got a really interesting problem on my 850r. When I started the engine runs for about a minute before it starts getting really rough and then stops. However, if I take out the air con fuse, it runs perfectly. I’m having to run the car without the fuse at the moment. I’ve had the car gassed and it doesn’t change the issue. If you’ve got any ideas, please let me know 🙏

[@RobertDIY]

Maybe the compressor is locking up.

[@viewfromear]

@@RobertDIY thanks Robert, no it moves freely. It’s all very strange. I’ve even had an Aircon guy take a look and he seems to think it’s okay. I think I may have to swap out the heater panel and see if that changes anything. I’ll keep you posted.

[@emilaej6448]

Cant find a low pressure switch to buy to my volvo v70 xc 1998

[@RobertDIY]

I have one

[@paulheder951]

Good morning Robert, Is the #3 method you mentioned in here broken down further in another video? I got an estimate of ~$1000 to fix my A/C from my nice Volvo mechanic. I believe one reason it’s on the high end is because of how many ECU (I think that’s what Volvo calls them) Volvo has in them (like 4 or 5 and they all cost like ~$200 each). I’m looking to fix it sometime next season and using my poor man cooler DIY A/C for now. Response is appreciated. What is your patron account? Or how can I support your channel a little?

[@RobertDIY]

All I know is that you can jump the connector like I explained and see if it kicks the system on. Not sure how to test the high pressure switch.

[@paulheder951]

@@RobertDIY I was wondering about your “zip tie” trick

[@raymondhudson1058]

My ac will run normal on cooler days but over 90 degrees outside temp the ac only works for about 15 min then gets warm. I can turn the ac off wait a bit then turn it on and then it blows cold for a little while before getting warm again. Any ideas??

[@RobertDIY]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hma0aIiHi9-JbKc

[@patrickmadden6340]

So no power to my compressor. Wires are good, relay is good. I can jump it at the relay panel though. Could it be a pressure switch?

[@RobertDIY]

did you watch the video?

[@carlmunoz1083]

hey robert, i noticed my clutch had been kicking on and off repeatedly, and when i take pressure readings the pressure keeps jumping around. compressor turns on, the pressure builds to about 55psi, then the compressor shuts off and the pressure drops to around 22psi. when the compressor turns on again, the pressure builds and then the compressor shuts off again. any ideas? i thought there may be a blockage, or maybe a bad evaporator? i've never done ac work so i have no idea

[@RobertDIY]

You have that reverse, when the compressor kicks on, the pressure should drop. Off, the gauge reads higher. Basically the system is likely under serviced.

[@carlmunoz1083]

@@RobertDIY yep, realized when i had watched your other video on air conditioning servicing that the issue was it being underfilled. thank you as always robert, your information in these videos is truly priceless

[@-Good4Y0u]

The 04-09 s60R and v70R only have a high side switch I believe.

[@RobertDIY]

I don't know.

[@-Good4Y0u]

@@RobertDIY ah, I'm trying to troubleshoot an AC issue where the compressor turns on and blows cold when shorted. Works in cool weather 60F but not hot 88F+ And it's currently zip tie shimmed and was recently emptied of refrigerant and refilled. I appreciate your videos. They have all the tips and tricks.

[@panagiwtiszeniou4237]

my volvo 850 when i turn on the air conditioner the lamp turns on normally the compressor does not start working then I move the speeds to 1234 and the light intensity in the lamp decreases but again the compressor does not work but the speeds and the fan work normally but not the air freezes because the compressor does not work. do you know why this happens?

[@RobertDIY]

Assuming you watched the video, have you had the system professionally serviced?

[@liikajalka]

where could be a problem when in the panel rec led works, but ac light doesnt light up no matter what position switch is

[@RobertDIY]

I don't even know what kind of car you have. Need to scan it.

[@gooddad1975]

Is you try cleaning and washing the big air condenser battery radiator

[@RobertDIY]

Huh?

[@niurkacabada3821]

Hello my friend has a 1993 Volvo a50 glt and his ac doesn’t work. He says it blows only hot air. He took it to two people and they said it was a wire problem and they can’t fix it. Please help it’s summer 😭 🔥

[@RobertDIY]

Is the compressor coming on?

[@RobertDIY]

Bring it by...

[@niurkacabada3821]

Where are u located ?

[@AnnetteBlea-cu7tx]

Why is my air conditioner staying on whent he car is turned off ???

[@RobertDIY]

What kind of car you have?

[@piskeris100]

Put som wd 40 on and its working agien

[@RobertDIY]

Perfect.

[@jenniferjelke2502]

You can get a genuine Volvo a/c compressor for about $400.-500. NOT $1,000. Of course, you can also have a genuine Volvo a/c compressor from a salvage yard professionally rebuilt for about $185.

[@RobertDIY]

Interesting

[@pascalmathes9727]

Thank you

[@RobertDIY]

You're welcome