99 C43-AMG AC works then dies
 

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

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

Most likely a bad evaporator temp sensor.

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.

will do thanks

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

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.