I encountered a strange problem with my 1998 Sebring LXi (2.5L SOHC). My air conditioning in always on. It does not matter if the switch is on or off, the compressor is running and I am getting cold air. The service manual gives lots of good troubleshooting techniques if you A/C is not working but is leaving me high and dry on why the compressor is not shutting off. Has anyone else encountered this issue?

Thanks

 

Sounds like your compressor clutch has failed in the "on" position. I have never heard of that but I suppose it could happen. Try unplugging the wire leading to the compressor. Then start the car and see if the compressor is still engaged. If so, the clutch has seized up. If not, then there is some wiring malfunction causing the clutch to be energized at all times.
It's not necessarily the end of the world. It could cause your compressor to fail a little sooner than it normally would, but it could still outlast the car. You'll burn a little more gas, but it is probably cheaper than tracing down that wiring fault professionally. You'll always be able to control the temperature in the car because the heater is much more powerful than the A/C.

 

I think you are correct in calling out a stuck clutch in the compressor. I unplugged the wire to the compressor and still got refrigerated air. This is not a big deal now but winter may be a problem. A Detroit winter is as cold as a Calgary winter so you know what I am talking about. I may try a few raps with a rubber mallet to see if I can nudge the clutch loose inside the compressor. If nothing else it will feel good!

 

Don't worry about being cold. The heater will keep you warm no matter what the A/C does. With the temp dial turned to the warm side, little or no air will flow over the evaporator core.
Careful with that hammer. If you succeed in dislodging the clutch, it may never engage again.