1999 C280, 95k miles.

I have never had the AC system checked out. All throughout the summer, I had to always turn on the AC at the first few minutes of driving or otherwise the compressor will never start even if I had the target temperature as 55F and it was 100F outside. I also had to keep the temperature at an extraordinary low temperature, since the Auto control turned down the fan 10-15F before it's target. The conditioned air didnt feel very cold, at most 50-60F, as opposed to other cars I've been in.

If I wanted AC for my commute, I had to turn on the AC right after starting the car, set a target temperature of 65F to get a reasonable 75F and had to wait 15-30 minutes before this temperature was even reached.


I was very busy then but I have some vacation for Christmas to tend to this problem. I have seen refill/lubrication kits, can you do this or is it best left to a professional? I have the Star manual (DVD).

 

I have had similar problems with other cars. Everytime the problem was low a/c refrigerant. Adding a can has worked for me in the past other times it hasn't. If there is a small leak adding a sealant will work along with refrigerant, but if it is a large leak you will have to get it repaired. By the sounds of it, it is probably a small leak if you are getting some cool air from the a/c. I would try a can before taking it to a repair shop.