Owner's Problem Description
The owner reported that the A/C started making a funny noise when turning left, and later discovered water dripping onto the passenger side floor when making the same turn. The A/C still functions but sounds like there is water inside it. Previous troubleshooting advice suggested a blocked drain tube as a common cause.
Professional Technical Analysis
The 2007 Dodge Caravan, equipped with a standard A/C system, is reported to have a symptom of unusual noise and water leakage. This vehicle typically has an A/C drain tube that can become clogged with debris, leading to water accumulation within the A/C evaporator case. When turning left, the accumulated water can slosh and cause noise and subsequently drip onto the passenger side floor. It's essential to assess the drain tube's condition, which is usually located under the vehicle beside the passenger footwell. A blocked drain can lead to improper A/C operation and potential water damage inside the cabin. The vehicle's operation indicates that the A/C compressor and system are functioning correctly, but the presence of water suggests a blockage rather than a mechanical failure. Safety concerns arise from water intrusion, which could lead to electrical issues or mold growth if not addressed. Routine inspections of the A/C system, particularly the drain tube, are critical in preventing such occurrences. Given this vehicle's age and typical mileage of around 100,000 miles, it’s common for these systems to experience drain blockages due to debris and environmental factors. Proper maintenance and timely repairs are necessary to avoid further complications.
Possible Causes
Most common causes (ordered by frequency):
- Blocked A/C Drain Tube: The A/C drain tube is likely obstructed due to debris, preventing water from draining outside the vehicle. This blockage can lead to water accumulation in the evaporator case, causing unusual noises and leaking into the passenger area. The drain tube is typically a rubber hose with a right angle bend, located under the vehicle near the passenger footwell. - Visual inspection of the drain tube shows debris blockage, water accumulation in the A/C unit, and noise during turns.
- A/C Evaporator Flooding: If the drain tube is blocked, the evaporator can flood, causing water to leak into the cabin. This flooding may also create unusual noises as the water sloshes around within the case. - Increased noise from the A/C system during left turns, and moisture detected on the passenger side floor.
Diagnostic Steps
Professional Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose the issue. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
- STEP 1 - Visual Inspection of A/C Components: Begin by visually inspecting the A/C drain tube located under the passenger side of the vehicle. Check for any visible debris or blockages. Ensure that the tube is securely attached to the drain fitting on the A/C evaporator case. This step is crucial in determining whether the blockage is external or if further investigation is needed inside the A/C system.
- STEP 2 - Drain Tube Clearing: If debris is found in the drain tube, attempt to clear it by squeezing the tube or using a thin tool like a pencil to dislodge the blockage. Ensure to take care not to damage the tube. After clearing, test the A/C system to confirm that water drains properly without leaks.
- STEP 3 - Test A/C Functionality: After clearing the blockage, run the A/C and monitor for any unusual noises or leaks. Conduct a road test to replicate the conditions that previously caused the issue, particularly turning left to check for any water dripping inside the cabin.
