[NYCDahon]

I have added a charge to many cars over time - but sometimes I found it was really the heater flap not really closing fully. Any easy way to check that on there cars? I had added a ball valve to a ford to just close off heater core when I had flap issues. Any advice on easy way to test before I just give charging a go?

 

[EagleESI]

There is a built in diagnostic, I only have 1G info. But perhaps some 2G person will chime in.

 

[peva]

The diagnostics also calibrates the doors and reports door problems.

 

[NYCDahon]

Thanks!
How do I get that to check things out? Is that built into the overhead outside temp and compass interface - or is this something that I do with my code reader? The AC is still is a bit cool - but just not really cold enough on hot days...

 

[peva]

You have ATC, not MTC?

 

[NYCDahon]

You have ATC, not MTC?

ATC I think - it is this type...

 

[peva]

Yes - ATC.

From FSM:
TROUBLE CODES FROM THE ATC HEAD
The trouble codes can be checked with the ATC control if a DRBIII􏰀 scan tool is not available. The control head can only be placed into the diagnostic mode while the engine is running and the vehicle is not moving. Set the control to a 75° F setting (so there is no confusion with the 23-51 Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC’s).

To place the system into it’s diagnostic mode, press and hold the Floor, Mix and Defrost buttons (at the same time) (Fig. 1). The ATC head display will begin to blink. Release the Floor, Mix and Defrost buttons. Once the control head enters the diagnostic mode, the display on the control head will continue to blink. This occurs until it completes its tests and climate control unit door/actuator calibrations. Then it will display any diagnostic trouble codes that are present in the BCM. If there are no diagnostic trouble codes, the system will return to its normal operation as indicated by the temperature symbol (C or F). Diag- nostic trouble codes related to the ATC and climate control unit will appear on the display in numerical form. The diagnostic trouble codes are stored in the BCM and can range between 23 and 51. The ATC control can only show one diagnostic trouble code at a time. Under certain circumstances, more than one diagnostic trouble code could be in the memory. To scroll through any additional diagnostic trouble codes, press the Panel Mode button on the ATC control. It is important that no other knob or button is pushed until all codes are read. Pushing any button except Panel Mode or turning a knob will end the diagnostic test without showing the rest of the trouble codes. There also may be other trouble codes stored in the BCM not related to the Climate Control System. These codes can only be found using the DRBIII􏰀 scan tool.

 

[NYCDahon]

As always Peva - thanks a million.

 

[peva]

You're welcome.

 

[NYCDahon]

It came up with a code 36. "ATC control communication failure" - the test sounded great while it was running. The inside flaps were opening & closing. It seemed like the air output got hotter - which was to be expected. Then up came a Code 36.

I am waiting with my old bag of charging gear - untill I get further advice. Is it the ATC head that is bad? Can I test my AC temp output - I am guessing that my AC system is good and that the problem is either the ATC or something. But a little knowledge is a dangerous thing...🐱

 

[peva]

IIRC, you'll get code 36 if you have the driver's door open while running the diags.

If that's the only code you got, you'll probably get no codes if re-run with the door closed.

 

[NYCDahon]

I missed the part about using the panel mode button to see all codes. I failed to do that. Which button is the panel mode one?

As far as the 36 code - I did have the doors all closed every time - and I got that same 36 code. I know the car door was closed because I shot this video and wanted to record the flaps opening & closing - so the closed door kept the city noise out and made it quiet.

 

[peva]

I just did some forum searches on code 36. It also occurs if you disconnected the ATC control unit with battery still connected. Cleared by disconnecting the battery. Disconnect the battery by removing the nut (15mm wrench) and top cable on the negative jump post for 15 or more minutes, then reconnect. Hopefully no more code 36 on diagnostics after that.

 

[NYCDahon]

I just did some forum searches on code 36. It also occurs if you disconnected the ATC control unit with battery still connected. Cleared by disconnecting the battery. Disconnect the battery by removing the nut (15mm wrench) and top cable on the negative jump post for 15 or more minutes, then reconnect. Hopefully no more code 36 on diagnostics after that.

Thanks - I have never had the ATC out - I did change the battery last year. I can try disconnecting the battery - but it seems the upshot is that this code is not really too important with regards to my AC issue. I will try looking to see if there are more codes. Hey just to be clear which button do I use to scroll through codes - once it has done it's thing and I have my 36 code showing.

 

[NYCDahon]

Ok - I found the Panel Mode Button - I think! Haha

 

[NYCDahon]

I only had code 36. I decided to ignore that and just give it a charge - it was low and I added a can - it blows icy cold now. Thanks for the help - all seems great.
Cheers