Is there a "they all fail this way" for AC leaks on gen 1 MINIs? Like Chrysler minivans where it is the rear condenser 99.9% of the time? Mine is clearly leaking somewhere. Compressor is working, I put a can in it and it worked for a month or two before it was low enough to not kick on the compressor. I just put in a can with dye but can't see anything with the blacklight. I'm just assuming it's the condenser, but don't see any evidence of a leak with the dye.

 

Might be as simple as the o-rings on the hose fittings. Those are cheap and easy to replace though you will need to remove the hoses and evacuate and recharge the system post-replacement.

 

Chris
Persevere with the black-light - the leak typically doesn't show up right away.
O-rings are the commonest spot.

 

After a week the system is getting low again. Now it's making a strange low-pitch hollow whistling sort of noise from the dash area. Daughter says it did that last time too. Something that happens when system pressure drops to a certain point? Does it indicate a problem part? I know very little about AC. Haven't had a chance to look for evidence of the UV dye again yet.

Thanks.

Chris B.

 

No idea about likely leak spots, but when my AC died (low fan dies, compressor dies from overheating at low speed) it made that same 'wheezing' sound. Had pressure in the AC line, but not cold. My fix was a new compressor.
Good luck, trying to track down AC issue on the Miata now.

 

Alright so after three weeks I took of the front bits and checked again with the UV light. Can't find anything. Every time I think I might see a spot it's just a label or something.

Compressor is working, as long as there is enough pressure in the system. I had to put a second can in it last weekend. So a significant leak, but I can't find any evidence.

Are there bits in the car behind the dash that could be the culprit? Just to make the repair maximum enjoyment?

Chris B.

 

Experiencing the same noise. Have been hunting a leak for some time now.

replaced compressor, condenser / dryer, orings, valves…

the expansion valve is at the firewall

the evaporator is behind the dash. :(

dash will have to come out at some point these summers are hot man 🥵

 

Thanks ssoliman. From that I deduce that my problem is the evaporator ;-)

I have given up on diagnosing this, an oil leak, and the EML light. As much as I hate to give up, Detroit Tuned will be having a look at the car next week.