- My model of MX-5 is: NC
- I’m based near: Corby
- I’m looking for technical help or recommendations on: Repair/regas air conditioner
I just took my NC to KwikFit for a gas recharge as my a/c was blowing warm air yesterday, and no cooler today. Kwikfit confirmed there is a leak in my system.
I went into Rockingham Cars and they can look see only mid August with a minimum 1 hour cost to analyse and search at £102/h + VAT!!
Question is: how can I spot where the system might be leaking and if it is the condenser or a pipe, is this a DIY replacement?
I am surprised that kwikfit did not offer to add a dye to the system for finding leaks.
You could try a leak detector spray
mmmm. Thanks for that suggestion. I think soapy water would do that too. However, I’m not sure that Kwikfit did not evacuate the system to find there was a leak and therefore there’s no pressure left in the system. I will check.
That spray is an external spray and would make a jot of difference unless there is pressure in the system.
If a system has a leak , you will not be able to vacuum the system down.
Don’t use Kwik fit places. Find a reputable guy who does a proper job.
The leak could be anywhere and to find a leak you need to pressurise the system with oxygen free nitrogen. Usual places on cars is the compressor mechanical seal , condensers stone chips or rotting out . But it could still be in a multitude of places.
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Stay kool in derby, A/C specialist and will tell you exactly what you need, fixed 3 of my 10-15 year old cars
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Yes I’ve had 3 cars myself regassed by them, excellent personal service, a shame the OP is in Corby though.
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Kwikfit can do a perfectly good job of a straight gas recharge but the Corby branch does not have repair expertise. I could go to Northampton Kwikfit for that, but it’s a long trek, particularly if I’d have to wait for parts. Hence my preliminary booking into the Mazda dealership at Rockingham cars. But there I expect a significant cost. I’m therefore looking for a local specialist. Do-it-myself? Not at all sure. Looks a tricky one according to my Haynes manual.
MX-5 Parts have the condenser in stock but I need to know where its leaking. Halfords may help at their local “garage” place.
I took my MX to Bee-Cool in Kettering this morning hoping to identify a leak site. AS I had to request an a/c service for this the car was put on the a/c re-charge and test machine and passed with flying colours!! 
The vacuum test held for 3 minutes with no rise in pressure (I watched it) and the system re-filled with gas, lube and dye. So what Kwikfit did, I have no idea. Anyway, problem solved without undue cost. I was advised that the a/c should get an annual service.
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Do it yourself isnt possible. You need nitrogen, a vacuum pump and refrigerant. Yes, you can buy refrigerant bottles from Halfrauds, but how much goes in safely and how much goes into the atmosphere, moisture contamination and non- condensibles. I find the situation of diy ‘kits’ from garages and retail outlets, not only dangerous to the users but also the environment. Yes, I work in air conditioning. We need certification for handling refrigerants , yet you need diddly squat for the same thing from a bottle in a shop.
Yes, buy the parts if needed ( you dont know without a pressure test it is the condenser) and supply a reputable person to replace this, yes. No problem. Similar to a mate of mine who had a garage. I diagnosed, he replaced the part, I recharged the system for him . But it is dangerous this refrigerant as well. Be safe 
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AC doesnt need an annual service. Keep filters clean and run it regulary and leave until you note temps arent as good. Skoda wanted to service my sons ac at great expense every 2 year. We are on year 9 and is still working fine . Glad its sorted
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Agreed, I was very reluctant to try a DIY repair and indeed the technician at Bee-Cool advised that it is illegal to DIY with a/c on ones drive.
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Now you know another reason to avoid Kwikfit!
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