Q: AC not blowing cold air in 2003 Toyota Corolla

asked by on February 09, 2016

I can hear the compressor engage when I turn on the AC, but hardly any cold air comes out. While it does blow air, it is mainly not cold.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement $105.53 - $178.59 Get a Quote
AC is not working Inspection $111.46 - $131.46 Get a Quote

If the air volume is low coming out of the vents the likely cause is a clogged cabin air filter which should be replaced. This can happen especially if the cabin filter has not replaced in a long time. The air temperature however would be affected either by the AC systems ability to remove heat from the air or possible a blend issue where the cooled air is routed through the heater core. AC gauges hooked up and monitoring the AC system during a performance will be able to narrow down possible causes. Another thing to consider would blocked fins/air passages in the evaporator, either by dirt or icing up of the evaporator. You may want to enlist the help of a mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will have the training, certifications, and equipment to diagnose the exact cause of the air volume/temperature issue with the AC system.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I check the aim of the headlights?
While your headlights shouldn’t need to be adjusted for a very long time, it’s possible that carrying heavy loads or even minor impacts could affect their aim. This has obvious implications for driving at night or during other times when...
How do I buckle a seat belt?
Seat belts are very important safety features, and you should never be in a moving vehicle without wearing a seat belt that is properly fastened. Buckling your seat belt is easy, and only takes a few steps: 1. Slowly pull...
Do I need to replace the engine fuse box or is there and easier fix that is less expensive?
The different models for those two years are not interchangeable for fuse box swaps. Your only way to fix the problem is to replace the fuse box (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-fuse-box) if the pins cannot be tightened up. If you need some assistance...
My truck seems to have a late reaction time to the accelerator.
This could be a variety of things ranging from poor fuel delivery to vacuum leaks. In the case of a vacuum leak, when you step on the accelerator and demand a quick increase in air/fuel flow to the intake system...
Sudden starting problem that happens sporadically
Hi there, thanks for writing in about your 1992 Oldsmobile 98. It is possible that the starter relay is failing (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/starter-relay-replacement). This relay is different than the starter solenoid that was likely replaced with the starter. The starter relay has...
My 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer started smoking and ticking and will not go above 20 mph.
Hello. There are a lot of things that can cause this. Most of the time if you have a ticking noise with smoke then you need to check for a misfire. I would usually start by scanning the computer for...
how much automatic transmission fluid to switch for 2007 camry
Hi there. I'll try to clarify this for you as it can be a bit confusing. When you replace the standing oil (or oil inside the pan of the transmission) it typically is around 4 quarts of ATF. During a...
My 2013 chevy captiva had the reduced engine power light come on while i was at a stop light.
Hi Daniel. Thanks for contacting us tonight. It's quite possible that these two warning lights - along with the 20 mph performance are caused by the same component - a damaged speed sensor. The reason your car is only going...
Everytime i accelerate my car makes a squealing noise
You may have one of your serpentine belt pulleys locking up or the belt tensioner is bad. Check these out to see what one is causing the problem. It may be the water pump also going bad and should have...

Related articles

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing AC Fan Control Module
Common signs include cooling fans running for a long time or not at all, as well as weakened air flow. Without fixing, your car may overheat.
How to Buy a Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-drive-a-toyota-prius) is one of the most popular hybrid models on the automotive market, and it comes with an array of perks. A Prius is more environmentally friendly than your average fuel-guzzling car, leaving less of an ecological...
How to Replace an Air Suspension Air Compressor
Signs of a bad air suspension air compressor include a car that rides low or when a car's ride height doesn't change when its load changes.