99 C43-AMG AC works then dies

[toamend]

All,
I don't have any experience with AC systems so looking for some guidance. the AC will work for maybe 3 minutes after a restart, then blows ambient air temp. It is pretty consistent and will fire up for another 3 minutes after every restart.

I had it charged at an MB dealer 3 years ago and the car doesn't get driven much. Think it's low on refrigerant? Any way for me to check without the special tools?
Thanks,
Todd
99 C43 w/80k miles, in South Florida

[mbdoc]

Try searching here for "actual" values on tha a/c system.

Most likely a bad evaporator temp sensor.

[xvvvz]

Search the archives of the various MB forums for information on how to read the AC diagnostics using the display on your AC's control unit's LCD display.

[toamend]

will do thanks

[toamend]

Here are the codes when car is fully warmed up and AC is not working:
1) 86
2) 97
3) 79
4) there is no 4
5) 146
6) 208
7) 10(Degree sign) 7
8) 109
9) 33

Anyone want to hazzard a guess?
Todd

[TMAllison]

Possibly a bad evaporator temp sensor. #5 (146F) is higher than #2 (97F) exterior temp.

Why dont you pull the error codes too.

Key to pos 2, left side temp to HI, right temp to LO, press and hold EC and REST for 5 secs, {You have 20 secs from time you turned key to complete. If you run out of time, cycle key and continue where you left off.} press right auto button, use right auto button to toggle through codes, FF means last one or none. Typ code formatt will read eb....1234.