Yesterday I went to pick someone up and tried my a/c before I got to them and it worked. I usually just drive with the windows down. When I got to them, I picked them up started going around the block and tried to turn it on. It didn't turn on and started giving me the flashing lights. This morning I tried it with my brother in the car and it worked again. The last time this happened it was in the 80/90's in LA and I just got my car washed so didn't want to roll down the windows.

I can't find anywhere about my problems and can't find the answer.
03' MCS

 

I'd go get the gas level checked ..... I don't find anything in an owner's manual to explain the blinking but seems logical that the system is trying to tell you something. proper gas pressure is the best place to start. Any auto A/C place can check and top off if needed. If your 03 has never been checked, being a bit low is not unusual .... but COULD also indicate a leak. Most A/C places will do a basic system check (for leaks) with a minimal charge. The A/C system on a MINI is 'common' .... 'cept when you start needing parts.

I do not recommend simply going to an auto part store and buying a DIY bottle of coolant gas. The system will not work properly if overcharged either ...... get it checked correctly.

don't believe it will matter but do you have automatic a/c, or the manual system?

have you ever changed the cabin air filter? First time I pulled mine on my 02 it looked like this:


p.s. this is something the dealer was supposed to be checking during service calls ..... I suspect this could reduce air flow!

 

I checked the Gas levels and they are normal.

I believe I have the manual system. As in 3 dials that I turn. (1 for direction, 1 for temp, 1 for how much air)

I'll check cabin air filter since I don't know when I last checked it.