Sccs

[dw8]

This is on my 2006 Mazda 5. The air conditioner stopped working. Went to the air specialist in my area. Determined the compressor is not getting power to it. Then went to the local garage and had their computer put on it. Came up as a SCCS switch stuck open. This is causing the power to not go to the compressor. Anyone ever heard of this switch? Really don't want the extra expense of going to the dealer for a high dollar computer scanning.

 

[DKaz]

Why do you need a second scan? Just ask the dealer or mechanic how much it'll cost to replace this switch.

 

[dw8]

The mechanic I took it to does not know what this switch is. Said I would need Mazda's computer to get the manufacturers code to say what it is.

 

[flcruising]

Not sure what an SCCS switch is, but according to the service manual there is only 1 refrigerant switch in the system. Did he try jumpering the clutch to make sure it worked? A Mazda Modular Diagnostic System (MMDS) or Ford IDS type system would probably be required to communicate with the modules.

You could download the FSM for yourself here though - http://www.mediafire.com/?wgev1ww9dc1c27g

 

[dw8]

Now that is really helpful. We never tried jumping the clutch.

Your link takes me to rockmelt? Tried it again and it went to the FSM. But won't download because I am at work. Will try again at home.

 

[dw8]

Is it safe for myself to jump the clutch? That is a really expensive part. Don't want to damage it.

 

[Davicho]

Take it to the dealership and get a definate answer.

Diagnostic ~$100
Compressor ~$800

If you jump the clutch and end up messing up the compressor, it will be a costly DYI diagnostic.

 

[flcruising]

Let me clarify, jumpering the clutch to make sure it works is completely different than jumpering it to run it that way. If you don't know much about vehicle (mechanical or electrical) systems, then it's probably best to take it to the dealer. But jumpering the clutch for 1/2 a second to see if it works isn't going to damage anything. I personally wouldn't throw $100 at someone just to hook up a device to tell me what's wrong my vehicle before I do my own investigating. But again, if you aren't so inclined, then do what you are familiar/comfortable with.

My next question is, did your mechanic check the system pressure with some refrigerant gauges?

 

[dw8]

My first stop was with the air conditioning guy. He evacuated the system and then put the proper amount in. All with the proper gauges and equipment. We then turned on the car and tried the a/c. Did not work. He tested everything he could with his test light. Crawled under the car and determined the compressor was not getting any power. He suggested I go to my mechanic and have the computer put on it. His machine showed a SCCS switch showing 5 volts on it. Which means it is open and not grounded. Said that is keeping the compressor from getting power. He then suggested going to Mazda to get the proper scanning done.

I have no problem getting under the car and jumpering the compressor. I am mechanically inclined. Just don't want to ruin the clutch or the compressor. And the prices are more closer to $931 for both.

Any suggestions on properly jumpering the clutch? I was also told that if I can find the ground on the relay it will do the same thing.

 

[flcruising]

Very well. You've at least gone through the avenue of those who would have been able to help, but too bad they didn't have better equipment. I'm surprised he gave you the error description without the DTC.

Anyways, if you've downloaded the FSM, here's a place to start...

• Go to document 'WM_09.pdf' and pages 474-475 for the relay diagrams.
• Start the engine.
• Turn the a/c system ON.
• Pull the a/c relay for the compressor clutch.
• Either jumper its terminal C+D in the harness (briefly and listen for its engagement), or simply swap it for another 'Type A' relay like the horn.
• Check your a/c operation.

'01-03A-48' of the document 'WM_01.pdf' lists steps using diagnostic equipment, but you should be able to follow the procedure without. That's about the best I can point you to without the DTC.

 

[dw8]

I will definitely be trying this when I get home from work today. Thank you!

 

[dw8]

Turned out to be the coil in the clutch burned up. Replaced it and it works great again. Found a company in Florida that sells the clutch assembly for $99.