Volvo D13 AC Not Working? Here’s What To Do Next!

Dealing with the unexpected issue of a Volvo D13 AC not working can be frustrating. However, understanding the possible causes can help you address the situation in no time.

Common reasons for the Volvo D13 AC malfunction include trapped moisture in the AC line, a damaged wire inside the cap disrupting the engagement of the compressor clutch, the presence of the SID22 fault code, and a malfunctioning compressor.

I have broken down the troubleshooting suggestions for each problem and provided preventive measures to avoid D13 AC malfunctions. Enjoy!

Top 4 Reasons Your Volvo D13 AC is Not Working

Initially, you should be worried about these 4 problems. These are more likely to disrupt the operation of your Volvo D13’s Air Conditioning System.

Issue #1: Trapped Moisture In the AC line of Volvo D13

If there’s moisture in the AC line then experiencing a malfunction in Volvo d13 AC is quite obvious. This moisture leads to clogs and blockages. As a result, the AC fails to work as regular. 

If the moisture freezes at the evaporator coil, the vehicle will also face clogs in high-pressure areas. If you can see a green indicator on the dryer but the AC keeps performing inconsistently, this should be the cause.

To Fix Trapped Moisture Issue In Volvo D13 AC Line:

• Try restoring the truck and the problem will go if it’s a minor moisture build-up.
• Look for damaged wire behind the engine air filter located on the passenger side. Change if one or more.
• Fix any connection-related issues from wires associated with the AC system. Such as torn or loose wires.
• Replacing the AC compressor might be the only end resort.

To Avoid Blockage in Volvo D13 AC Line:

• Make it happen to check the affected wires to see if those were the initial cause.
• Always watch out for any wear, tear, or loose connection points within the AC system.
• Follow proper maintenance guidelines for the expansion valve and receiver driver.

If you succeed in fixing this issue and your AC starts working like usual, here’s a quick tip to try. This is something Joshua Bartlett of I’ll Just Fix It Myself suggests and I loved the idea. 

The tip is to run your AC on full power so that the evaporator gets cold and results into forming condensation. Something that will allow draining moisture or build up from the AC system. 

Issue #2: Damaged Wire Inside The Cap

I just did talk about a damaged wire problem that can cause your Volvo D13 AC to malfunction. But there’s one more to point out. And it’s the one that stays right inside the cap. 

This is a quite critical connection point that goes into the cap. You should give it a closer inspection and make sure none of the wires are damaged particularly a red one.

These wires are responsible for maintaining a secure connection between the cap and the clutch. So, any deterioration here can disrupt the compressor clutch engagement hence AC malfunction.

To Fix Damaged Wire Issue In Volvo D13 Cap:

• Try bypassing the broken connection to rebuild it.
• Fix any water leakage that could be inside the cap.
• If the cap is exposed to peeling insulation or corrosion, it requires replacement.

To Avoid Wire Damage in Volvo D13 Cap:

• Always keep an eye on the cap inside connectors.
• Any water leaks require quick fixing.
• Occasionally disconnect the negative connectors and clean them.

Issue #3: CODE SID22 AC Malfunction Issue

If you are experiencing AC malfunction in your Volvo d13 with a specific fault code SID22, then it is the Refrigerant Pressure Sensor problem. 

It is possible that the climate control unit is not able to get the right information for the Refrigerant Pressure Sensor. And this could be particularly true for the high-pressure side. As a result, the AC system is failing to function properly.

Failed switches can contribute to this problem. It can also happen from a blown fuse. Or the control module could be at fault as well.

To Fix Fault Code Error In Volvo D13:

• Check for loose connections or visible damage in the sensor and replace those.
• Try to reset the faulty sensor once as well.
• Look for leaks in the system, even the smallest can lead to an imbalance in sensor readings.
• Replace any damaged switches, blown fuses, or control module components that are faulty.

To Avoid Fault Code Error In Volvo D13:

• There’s no alternative to routine maintenance of the overall AC system.
• A periodic check for refrigerant leaks is essential.
• Damaged sensors should be replaced as soon as detected.
• Maintain the correct pressure in the system through the right refrigerant levels.

Issue #4: Malfunctioning Compressor

Volvo D13 AC may start misfunctioning due to a problem within the compressor. This could be especially true for the new style that lacks a visible clutch.

The compressor needs to function properly for the refrigerant to circulate throughout the system. And any disruption here can cause the AC to not work.

Also, your Volvo air conditioning will not work if there’s a refrigerant leak. It could be detected in the evaporator, condenser, or even hose. This is a common reason for disrupting proper refrigerant circulation and causing the air conditioner of Volvo d13 to not blow cool air. Sometimes it starts blowing warm air instead.

A strong sign that the compressor is having a problem is noticing a slight drop in engine idle speed whenever the AC is activated. Also, if the AC works for a short period but stops soon, the clutch is most likely damaged and requires replacement.

Pressure build-up or scratch in the piston area can also contribute to compressor issues. You can find more about piston problems in my other guide where I cover common issues with the D12 engine.

IMPORTANT – Make sure you have an AC compressor that includes the jumper harness in case of replacement. This is important to sidestep any reversed polarities chance. Something that can lead to frying the clutch, leading to an entire compressor replacement.

To Fix Malfunctioning Compressor Issues In Volvo D13:

• Look for wear signs within valves, gaskets, and clutch inside the compressor.
• Replace or clean any defective part.
• Look for build-up or scratch in the piston area and fix it.
• Repair the clutch system.
• Replacing the unit might be the last resort.

To Avoid Malfunctioning Compressor Issues In Volvo D13:

• Recheck your way of refilling the refrigerant.
• Address refrigerant leak issues to allow proper circulation.
• Use a proper jumper harness.

Wrapping Up

And that’s all for today. I hope you detect the exact cause behind your Volvo D13 AC not working. 

However, if none of these reasons were behind the problem, consider consulting a professional immediately. Perhaps the AC system in your Volvo D13 is facing a more significant issue that requires expert inspection.

Also, I’ve just covered some of the top issues notable in D16, Volvo’s other engine variant. Don’t forget to give that a check.

I’ll see you in my next guide soon, take care!