Common car air conditioner problems
Air Conditioning Compressor Malfunctions
If the system is working properly, when the air conditioner is turned on, a click is heard - this is the clutch pressure plate, under the action of an electromagnet, engages with the drive pulley, and the compressor rotor begins to rotate.
But during the operation of the air conditioner, the following compressor malfunctions may occur.
1. If, when the air conditioner is turned off, the clutch makes extraneous sounds during rotation, heats up or a burning smell appears, then its bearing has probably begun to collapse. In this case, the bearing must be replaced. In some advanced cases, it may be necessary to replace the compressor clutch assembly or its constituent parts.
2. If you don’t hear a click after turning on the air conditioner, then the following problems are possible:
- there was a refrigerant leak, and the control system blocks the compressor from turning on;
- the pressure sensor in the system has failed;
- malfunctions in the electrical circuits of the control system;
- the coil winding of the clutch electromagnet burned out;
- engine control unit for any reason (high engine coolant temperature, high engine speed) blocked the compressor.
3. If the clutch rotates easily and freely, but when the air conditioner is turned on, extraneous noises are clearly audible or the engine even stalls, then the compressor is most likely stuck. The internal pump part of the compressor cannot be repaired. In this case, the compressor will have to be replaced.
4. And the last, most insidious option. A click is heard, the clutch easily rotates the compressor shaft, and there is no coolness in the cabin. In this case, it only seems that the compressor is working, but in reality it is not pumping anything. Only an experienced specialist with special control and diagnostic equipment can establish the truth.
The cause of the malfunction can be most accurately determined after a complete diagnosis in a specialized service center for the repair of automobile air conditioners.