I've a Peugeot 405 and the air conditioning system has been faultless over the years. I think it was last re-gassed in 2002. Today, despite the pouring rain, it was stuffy. So I switch the air conditioning on. First thing I noticed was a new hissing sound coming from the blower vents on the dashboard. There's always been a slight hiss but now it's a lot louder. Then of course the next thing I notice is the lack of freezing air. It's just regular cold air like on non- aircon cars. I cannot detect any extra cooling.
Based on the fact that... A: this problem just suddenly happened (didn't happen gradually over days or weeks), B: the compressor's clutch still operates when I switch on the A/C button (Albeit with less drag on the engine than before). C: The radiator fans still operate with A/C switched on. ...can anyone guess what's the likely cause?
Could it just need regassing? I've no experience of aircon problems. I thought that leaks would cause a gradual failure? I know it will need looking at by an aircon specialist but I'm just wondering from what little info I've able to give if anyone might have an idea of the cause? I'd rather not be totally at the mercy of some aircon cowboy who'll replace more than is needed just to make more money.
Thanks