I've just bought a 2009 i10 1.2, 53k miles. A very genuine car from a genuine seller. Car hasn't been used much over last couple of months apart from a once in a while short run to keep things moving.

Seller said (and I believe him) that a/c was working when last used, and I didn't think to try it during short test drive.

Took it out for a short run (20 miles or so) and a/c is not working, or rather it does everything except blow cold air- fan works fine, compressor and engine fan cut in.

Took it to local a/c and leccie specialist yesterday and they hooked it up to the machine that does a timed programme. Guy was very approachable and I watched the process as he explained it to me. Pressure was good, was a little bit down on gas but not much. Still no cold air. Checked various things, including a relay, but to no avail. He did say that the pipes were not cold. Pressure on system was good when engine and a/c running and hooked up to machine. They put a UV dye in so it can be checked for leaks.

I'm going to consider my options (I generally regard working a/c on an inexpensive used car as a bonus) but it's frustrating that it was recently working.

A new compressor seems to be about £250, condenser about £125. Don't want to spend that sort of amount.

Is it possible (or a forlon hope born out of optimism) that if I use the car enthusiastically on a decent run it might give a cough and a sneeze and sort it outself out?

Thanks