Common Car Air Conditioning Problems
Air Conditioning Compressor Malfunctions
If the system is working properly, a click is heard when the air conditioner is turned on - this is the clutch pressure plate, under the action of an electromagnet, engaging 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 strange sounds during rotation, heats up, or a burning smell appears, then its bearing has probably begun to deteriorate. In this case, it is necessary to replace the bearing. In some advanced cases, it may be necessary to replace the compressor clutch assembly or its components.
2. If you do not hear a click after turning on the air conditioner, the following problems may occur:
- there is a refrigerant leak and the control system is blocking the compressor from turning on;
- the pressure sensor in the system is out of order;
- faults in the electrical circuits of the control system;
- the clutch electromagnet coil winding burned out;
- engine control unit for some reason (high engine coolant temperature, high engine speed) blocked the compressor from turning on.
3. If the clutch rotates easily and freely, but when you turn on the air conditioner, you can clearly hear extraneous noises or even the engine stalls, then most likely the compressor is jammed. 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. There is a clicking sound, the clutch easily rotates the compressor shaft, but 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 most accurate way to determine the cause of the malfunction is after a complete diagnosis at a specialized service center for repairing car air conditioners.