Like the subject line says, I was sitting at a stop light a couple weeks ago and a puff of steam rolls out from under my hood. My A/C immediately got warm, and the compressor does not even try to kick in now.

Am I likely to have a dead compressor, or have I just sprung a leak? I know nearly nothing about A/C, and Bentley's not saying much.

Thanks,
Sean

Sean,

The high pressure hose is a distinct possibility for a mega leak, like Art said look for the oil. Also don't forget to look at the aluminum pipes coming off the back of the compressor especially the one on the driver side to see if it is in contact with the power steering hose. If it is, look for a rub/wear hole in the aluminum pipe (high pressure side).

jorrell

Thanks, all! I'll go over the system, looking for evidence of leaks. Maybe I won't have to buy a new compressor after all. Will report back.

You may have blown the high pressure hose.
Dan

Look over the compressor, and then all of the AC fittings and condenser, for signs of oil around where it sprung a leak. The compressor will not attempt to run without refrigerant.
--
Art Benstein near Baltimore

You feel stuck with your debt if you can't budge it.