A/C - Warning Light Flashes

REFERENCE ELECTRICAL
NUMBER 020
DATE 9-21-84
MODEL CE, SV, CV

CONDITION:

The indicator lamp in the A/C switch begins flashing with air conditioning on in a Camry or Diesel Corolla.

CAUSE:

The possible cause is that the air conditioner amplifier has sensed compressor malfunction and/or drive belt slippage, and has disengaged the compressor magnetic clutch to prevent reduction of alternator or power steering pump output, and/or belt damage.

CORRECTION:

Determine the cause of compressor malfunction or belt slippage and correct as necessary.

NORMAL SYSTEM OPERATION:

The air conditioner compressor is equipped with a revolution sensor. The output of this sensor is compared by the A/C amplifier with engine RPM. If the amplifier senses a drop in compressor RPM relative to engine RPM it determines that a problem in the compressor has occurred. If this condition continues for longer than 0.6 seconds, the compressor clutch is switched off, idle-up is released, and the A/C switch indicator lamp flashes. The indicator lamp will continue to flash until the ignition switch is turned off to cancel the flashing light.