I am really confused about how my AC is acting up.

Symptoms:

1. The AC works fine during start up in the morning - when it is cool out side.

2. After I drive 10 minutes or so of driving the AC stops and the control panel lights also go off.

3. When the engine is cool again, the AC will start.

One of the mechanic says my control panel board is bad and need to be replace (~$400).

 

It could be as simple as faulty AC switch, however you'll need to pull the control panel to investigate.

It could also be a faulty blower switch. Does blower continue running when AC cooling stops?

good luck

 

Thanks Texas Honda. Yes the blower runs when AC is off. What is confusing to me is that what does outside temp. have anything to do with it. If the switch or control panels are bad, the thing shouldn't run at all. Could thermostat affect its operation?

 

What about the other lights on the panel? Like the recycle light, does it stay lit or go off as well. If all the lights go off then I would agree with your mechanic, the control board is probably bad. I bought one off ebay for $50-$60, works great.

 

Yes, thermostat can interupt the ground path and stop the compressor. It does this to prevent freezing when operating normally. However, the control panel lights would not be affected.

Suggest getting a manual (check Online Manuals in DIY forum) and check DIY forum for help w/ removing the heater control panel.

automanualsource on ebay can provide an emanual for $21.99 for your car, a bargain.

good luck

 

Thanks TexasHonda: Seems we are neighbors. I am in 77084