It is very crucial to look after your car and its parts if you want it to work in order for a long time. Air conditioner compressors are not given much thought by car owners when it comes to car repair and maintenance. And then, when you try to turn the AC on, on a parching sunny day, you find out that it does not work. Maybe it needed a car air conditioning recharge. You could have identified and fixed the issue on time, but unfortunately, you did not pay attention. Read this article to know the symptoms of a bad AC compressor so that you can figure it out before it is too late.
High cabin temperature:
The sole purpose of turning an AC is to get cool air, but when you get hot air instead, there must be a problem with AC. One of the culprits behind a dysfunctional AC is a bad AC compressor. A failed AC compressor will not be able to regulate the flow of refrigerant in the AC system. As a result, the temperature in the cabin will start building up rather than cooling down. So, if you have hot air problems in the car, you must check the AC cabin.
Strange noises from running compressors:
You may know that it produces a sound while switching AC on and off. But a loud is one of the symptoms of a bad AC compressor. These sounds generate as a result of damage to some of the components of the car, such as bearings. If any part of the compressor fails and breaks, it will generate a squeaking sound.
Leaking fluids:
Leaking fluids is another key symptom of a bad AC compressor. The inner parts of the compressor have bearings that prevent the leakage of refrigerants or fluids. If you notice a fluid leakage, then the bearings must be broken, damaged, or worn out. The fluid or refrigerant seeps out of their channels due to damaged bearings.
Stuck AC compressor clutch:
Another potential and a problematic sign of a bad AC compressor is a stuck AC compressor clutch. An AC compressor clutch is attached to the engine through a pulley. It allows the transfer of power from the engine to the clutch. It makes sure that the compressor turns only in need. When a clutch seizes, it can result in a broken or a full-time activated compressor. It makes a clutch unable to drive power from the engine and halting its overall function.
ECU error:
ECU( engine control unit) is the brain of a car. It controls, maintains, and regulates many functions related to the engine. If the light on the dashboard says ‘check your engine’, you must have invited a big problem. And compressor damage can be one of them. The failure of the compressor can be due to corrosion, leaks, wear and tear in components, and loss of lubrication. You must take the car to an expert mechanic immediately after noticing this signal.
Why should you worry about the AC compressor damage?
A compressor is an essential part of AC as it converts refrigerant gas into liquid as it passes through the condenser. It compresses the gas and makes it hot, which is then cooled by the condenser. Therefore, it is known as the heart of an air conditioner.
Bottom line:
Now, you are able to diagnose the symptoms of a bad car air conditioner compressor. You must take your car to a mechanic and car expert the moment you identify the above-mentioned signs. They can fix your problem and may replace it (if needed). But don’t let yourself suffocate in dry weather.