RGV

The heat of SoCal is upon me. It been a month since it started to happen, no error code, the AC is still running but it blows hot-warm air in the driver-side while cool air on the passenger. I brought it to the family mechanic he said it's likely due to "insulator" or something that's behind the dash (which he would has to disassemble). But, I google and find that my AC probably just need a recharge (r134a). Is it true that something behind the dashboard or just a simple recharge?

*Note: It takes a while for the driver-side air vent to get cooler.

tech8

The refrigerant level can be checked with the proper equipment. Although the cause can be due to the doors, it may also be due to low refrigerant.

Honda had information that an indicator of low refrigerant is when the left dashboard vent is warmer than the right one, with the A/C on; which you previously experienced. When that happens, the evaporator core isn't being flooded with enough liquid refrigerant, causing it to fully vaporize halfway through the core. As a result, the side of the core with some refrigerant (the right side) stays cold, while the side that's fully vaporized (the driver's duct) is warmer by about 20 degrees (or more in some cases)

holmesnmanny

It's likely a refrigerant leak and this guy is trying to take you for a ride. I would immediately look for a different mechanic.