Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.
Hosted by mcallihan.com

Relays and Switches

Compressor Control Relay

The compressor clutch coil is energized through the compressor control relay. This relay is activated by the PCM in A/C modes. The PCM provides cut-off of the relay under certain operating conditions such as wide open throttle.

A/C Refrigerant Pressure Sensor

An electronic A/C refrigerant pressure sensor is mounted to the line (between the condenser and the evaporator). The output to the PCM is variable and is dependent upon pressure inside the line. A higher pressure results in a higher voltage out. The PCM constantly monitors A/C system pressure to:

1. Disengage the A/C clutch if the pressures are too high, above 2700 kPa (440 psi.).
2. Disengage the A/C clutch if pressures are too low, below 285 kPa (38 psi.).
3. Boost idle air control to compensate for A/C load at idle.
4. Control cooling fan operation. The pressure sensor is not repairable, if it fails, it must be replaced.