Hi all, first post here.

Following a New England winter, we've had a few warm days so I tried the A/C in my 2008 Civic Sedan and the compressor clutch wasn't engaging.

I had the freon checked, and it was low, so I got that topped off.

The mechanic said that he could get the compressor to turn on "with the computer," but that the dashboard buttons aren't turning on the compressor for whatever reason. He said he'd have no choice but to open up the dash and check wiring, etc., which sounded like a pretty time consuming job, so I told him I'd get back to him on that.

I was just wondering if there are any DIY steps I could take, or maybe a workaround to turn on the A/C without using the dashboard buttons as a temp fix. I already replaced the compressor clutch relay, but that doesn't seem to be the problem, because he said it kicks on just fine when "using his computer."

I'm also curious, what sort of diagnostic computer is he using? I assume it's more involved than a regular OBD II sorta thing.

Really appreciate any advice.

 

The thermo switch on top of the compressor is a common problem... you might try to jump this and see if the button on the dash works then.

 

Probably used some can bus type computer