2006 Scion xB AC Problem
 

Problem :

-AC doesn’t work when driving at high speeds ..

-AC works well when idling ..

Theory : Previous owner replace Engine also added a COLD AIR INTAKE which according to google, “The first benefit of replacing this stock air intake system is increased acceleration due to added horsepower and torque.”

That being said, my theory with what I have read Compressor speed depends on engine speed. The higher the engine speed, the faster the compressor spins. The faster a compressor spins, the higher its discharge pressure.
So although my car might have the correct compressor it might not be sufficient because of the COLD AIR INTAKE that was added.

I just might have to buy a compressor with higher RPM capabilities….(Maybe)

Things I have checked:
-AC pressure levels good
-Compressor does turn on
-Fan working properly


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It's not the cold air intake.
It works when idling? - it's not the compressor.

I would check to see if the compressor is turning off at large throttle openings / high rpm, perhaps that was something else the previous owner added.

I notice that my AC only works below 2000 RPMS, once it goes over that it stops working..

It could be the AC clutch has gone bad - electrically - somehow
I've heard of similar things happening to GM cars - where the clutch circuit has an overheat device that shuts it off when it gets hot. You know, just when you need it :)

That sounds about right I will go get that check out with and AC technician...
I just don't want to replace something that ends up not being the solution hahaha .. Trial and error I guess !
This is fun thanks guys ..

I made a video concerning this problem I uploaded it to Youtube check out this link:

That doesn't sound good at all (near the end of video).
It doesn't look as though Scion sells the clutch separately
Even Rockauto only sells the whole thing as an assembly

Probably best to have an AC tech diagnose it.
There is an electrical connection on the compressor, it may be worth unplugging it to see if it's corroded/loose wire etc and then re-plug. At least that is free.

Did you ever figure this out? I replaced my A/C compressor due to a bad clutch. And now after a year my A/C does the opposite. While idling its warm, but if I keep it at about 2k RPMs, its starts to cool.

while driving, it cools perfect . Thanks