I have a 96 A6 wagon with the 12v V6. My A/C is no longer working (cold).
When I open the hood the condenser (looks like a radiator) has what appears to be a stain from a leak.

Can a condenser be repaired? Is it worth repairing or easier to replace?

Is there anything unique to the Audi A/C system.


Thanks.

 

the condenser can be repaired but at a cost near to a new unit so not viable ( fit a new or refurbished unit) are you sure its that where the leak is from/if the system charged up?? or could it be it just needs charging, the system can be pressure tested at a garage that works on A/C systems

 

Is there anything "special" about the a/c system in audis?

There is a distinct stain on the condenser that runs down. When I first purchased the car, I tested the a/c and it was cold. It has not worked since.

 

nothing special mate same as most cars it could need a recharge but the only real way to check it is to have the system pressure tested

they use a dye to find leaks

 

Why would the system need a re charge if there was no leak.. Aren't a/c systems a closed loop. The refirerant does not get used up, right?

 

it does leak out over time same as a fridge in the house the gas depletes all metal is porous to some extent that's why they need re-gassing approx every three os so years

 

Thanks avant, I'll have to get it to a shop for a check up.

Can't go another summer without A/C.

 

it needs to be recharged every once in awhile, thats costs a pretty penny but fixes most a/c problems

 

im kinda pissed with the older 12v engines. imnot too sure about the a6 model but my a4 from the same time has a weird low side valve. you cant do it yourself with a kit, most shops cant do it, and even though audi said they can i dont htink they can. i was in yesterday getting my system charged and it didnt do anything, still hot and i got charged 250. later i checked the pressure in the system and it read 0psi. and i know there wasent a leak.but then again when a brick goes through your grille who knows.