Expert: autohelp - 2/6/2005

Question
The Automatic Temperature Control module went dead and will not control the air conditioning or heat.  I replaced the ATC with another one but that didn't seem to be the problem.  The guy that I bought the other ATC from said that he had the same problem and that's why he had that module to sell.  His problem also wasn't fixed by getting a new module.  I guess the real problem was a short in the wiring.  Any suggestions how I could trace this problem if it is a short in the electrical
system?
Thanks,
Norm Lofting
Mt. Pleasant, Iowa

Answer
FIRST thing you NEVER do is replace an electronic component WITHOUT first doing the diagnostics to determine WHAT the actual problem IS.

It is highly possible that the previous owner of the ATC installed it into his vehicle BEFORE doing the diagnostics to determine exactly what the problem was.

Since it was a SHORT circuit, It is highly probable that the ATC that you purchased has been internally damaged due to the SHORT CIRCUIT in the other owners vehicle.

It is also possible that your problem IS the ATC but the one you bought is most likely DAMAGED internally.

Your ONLY solution is to get the inoperative system diagnosed as to the EXACT cause of your problem BEFORE you go GUESSING and spending money on expensive electronic components.

You may have very likely purchased a damaged inoperative ATC.



autohelp