A/C System Performance

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2001 Pontiac Sunfire, 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier, 2000 Pontiac Sunfire, and 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Ensure ambient temperature is 70-90°F (21-32°C). Place vehicle out of direct sunlight. Place thermometer in center outlet vent. Close windows and doors. Connect manifold gauge set. Place temperature knob at full cold position. Place A/C mode select knob on normal and blower switch in high position.
Operate engine with A/C on, at idle, for at least 5 minutes. Check temperature at both sides of orifice tube. If temperature is not same on both sides, go to next step. If temperature is same at both sides, orifice tube is stuck open or missing. Replace orifice tube. Evacuate and charge system. Check system for leaks.
Record high-side and low-side pressures. Check pressure readings with cooling fan on. Pressures should be within correct range. See A/C SYSTEM PERFORMANCE PRESSURE SPECIFICATIONS table. Check vent outlet temperature. Outlet vent temperature should be about 20°F (7°C) cooler than ambient temperature.

A/C SYSTEM PERFORMANCE PRESSURE SPECIFICATIONS⁽¹⁾

High-Side Pressure psi (kg/cm² )

Low-Side Pressure psi (kg/cm² )

150-200 (10.5-14.1)

32-55 (2.2-3.9)

200-250 (14.1-17.6)

36-59 (2.5-4.1)

250-324 (17.6-22.8)

38-65 (2.1-4.5)

⁽¹⁾	Testing ambient temperature is 70-90°F (21-32°C).