Auto Air Conditioning & Heater Repair: 98 Sienna AC problem, inline fuse, gas leak

Question
Hello,

I have a 98 Sienna and my AC does not work.  The clutch on the compressor does not engage.  It worked fine a few weeks ago and then it just blew hot air today.  I suspected a fuse, but they all seem ok.   I see an inline fuse in the wire to the compressor, but I can't get to it.

Questions:  Do you think it could be this inline fuse?

If I had a gas leak, would a sensor prevent the compressor from coming on?

If the compessor died, would I hear a click when it tries to engage?

Is a local garage qualified to do this kind of repair/diagnoses?  I am scared of taking it to a dealer.

Thanks very much for your time.


Answer
Most likely you have a leak in the A/C system and have lost the FREON and this will prevent the compressor from engaging.

As to taking it to a GARAGE, It depends on the knowledge and reputation of the garage people. You might get it fixed RIGHT and you might get it back WORESE than it is.

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