why does my Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020) air conditioner blow hot air

Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

580 words

Problem Statement

Complete guide to fixing AC that blows hot air in Ford F-150 2015-2020. Includes symptoms, diagnostic steps, tools required, and repair procedures.

Affected Component

HVAC

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
•Allow the engine to cool before accessing any components.

Symptoms

•Air conditioning system does not cool down the cabin
•Warm air continuously blows from the vents
•AC compressor does not engage or cycles rapidly
•Unusual noises from the AC system (e.g., hissing or clunking)
•Visible refrigerant leaks under the vehicle
•"AC Off due to High Engine Temp" warning on the dashboard

Diagnostic Steps

1
Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to check for any related trouble codes.
2
Inspect the refrigerant levels using a manifold gauge set to ensure proper pressure.
3
Check the AC compressor function by observing if it engages when the AC is turned on.
4
Examine the AC fuse and relay to ensure they are not blown or faulty.
5
Inspect the blend door actuator to confirm it is functioning correctly and not stuck.
6
Check for refrigerant leaks by using a UV dye or electronic leak detector.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•OBD-II scanner
•Manifold gauge set
•UV leak dye
•Basic hand tools

Parts Required

•AC refrigerant
•AC compressor (if needed)
•Blend door actuator (if needed)
•O-rings and seals

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Symptoms

•Air conditioning system does not cool down the cabin

•Warm air continuously blows from the vents

•AC compressor does not engage or cycles rapidly

•Unusual noises from the AC system (e.g., hissing or clunking)

•Visible refrigerant leaks under the vehicle

•"AC Off due to High Engine Temp" warning on the dashboard

Diagnostic Steps

1
Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to check for any related trouble codes.
2
Inspect the refrigerant levels using a manifold gauge set to ensure proper pressure.
3
Check the AC compressor function by observing if it engages when the AC is turned on.
4
Examine the AC fuse and relay to ensure they are not blown or faulty.
5
Inspect the blend door actuator to confirm it is functioning correctly and not stuck.
6
Check for refrigerant leaks by using a UV dye or electronic leak detector.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Needed: OBD-II scanner, manifold gauge set, UV leak dye, basic hand tools.
Safety Warning: Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.

2. Refrigerant Recharge

Connect the manifold gauge set to the low and high-pressure ports of the AC system.
Check the pressure readings and compare them with manufacturer specifications.
If low, use a refrigerant canister to recharge the system, following the canister instructions.
Monitor the pressure as you add refrigerant to ensure it does not exceed maximum limits.

3. Compressor Replacement (if necessary)

Disconnect the battery and relieve the refrigerant system pressure.
Remove the serpentine belt by using a socket wrench to release tension on the tensioner.
Unplug the electrical connector from the AC compressor.
Remove the AC lines connected to the compressor, ensuring to capture any remaining refrigerant.
Unbolt the compressor from its mounting brackets and remove it from the engine bay.
Install the new compressor by reversing the removal process, ensuring all seals and O-rings are replaced.
Reconnect the AC lines and electrical connector.

4. Blend Door Actuator Replacement (if necessary)

Remove the dashboard or relevant trim panels to access the blend door actuator.
Disconnect the electrical connector from the actuator.
Remove screws or bolts securing the actuator and carefully pull it out.
Install the new actuator and secure it with screws or bolts.
Reconnect the electrical connector and reassemble the dashboard or trim panels.