This 2003 Toyota 4Runner came in with the complaint that the a/c stops cooling after a while and the a/c lights on the dash start flashing. This is a common problem on later model Toyota’s in general. Most of the time it is just a failed compressor clutch relay but sometimes as in this case there is an updated part to correct the condition according to Toyota.
The MG CLT relay (magnetic clutch) is the white one in the center of the following picture.
The new relay I installed is black in color and it is and aftermarket design. I have used quite a few of these and have had no problems as of this post. There is a big difference in the cost of the original Toyota part and the aftermarket version.
The fuse box cover is marked MG CLT for the magnetic clutch relay. A quick test drive to confirm the problem was resolved and this one was done.
Thanks for the great tip! My AC is working again. At first I thought it was the AC 115 INV relay which was bad. That seems to be more of a common problem. I’m glad I found this post and checked the MG CLT relay. Thanks again.
Sparky you’re the Man! I never suspected that particular Relay was the culprit. I always love to fix it myself and skip the “Dealer” experience and expen$e. $14 part and AC is back up.
Thanks so much!
Thank the Lord my husband found your site! He was able to fix the ac in my 4Runner within minutes and for under $10.00! I’m sure the charge at the dealership would have been well over $100.00, plus the hassle of being wihtout my car for a few hours. Thanks for sharing this tip, Sparky.
March 14, 2011
Thanks Sparky:
Found the AC clutch relay (MG-CLT). put in a salvage relay, and it seems to work perfect
excellent tip … I changed this relay in 30 seconds and was blowing cold air!