We’re still in the midst of summer so let’s talk about your vehicle’s AC compressor. This part is crucial to your air-conditioning system, and if it is going bad, you might be stuck with a very hot and uncomfortable automobile. Mike’s Automotive services and repairs vehicle air-conditioning systems, so bring your car, truck, or SUV in if you notice any of the following symptoms of AC compressor trouble.
Strange Sounds
Your compressor takes refrigerant and pushes it into the condenser. During the process, the refrigerant is reduced from liquid to gas and then back to liquid. This is a fundamental explanation of this, but if there is something wrong with any of the compressor’s parts, you might hear strange sounds when you turn on your automobile’s air conditioner. This is a signal that internal parts are wearing down.
You Aren’t Getting Cold Air
When you turn on the AC, it isn’t so that you have hot air blowing out of the vents. If you do, this, too, could be a problem with the compressor, condenser, or refrigerant. Hopefully, the reason the AC isn’t cooling the air is that you have low refrigerant. That said, this can also indicate that the compressor is not circulating the refrigerant properly so that it can cool down and, as such, cool the air blowing through the vents.
You Have a Fluid Leak
Located in the AC compressor are internal bearings that seal the refrigerant inside. If the bearings are wearing down, you will notice a fluid leak on your garage floor. These bearings can’t really be fixed. Rather, it’s best to replace them to restore the full seal in the compressor. These bearings wear down over time because the compressor’s refrigerant is pressurized during the cooling process, stressing the bearings.
The Compressor Clutch Is Stuck
Your vehicle’s AC compressor is operated by a clutch that connects to the engine using a pulley. This works to your advantage because this pulley system only uses engine power when it needs it. As with any automobile part, the clutch can stop working overtime, killing the compressor. As with the bearings, it’s best to replace the clutch rather than repair it if it dies.
Notice any of these symptoms when you turn on your vehicle’s air conditioner? Stop by Mike’s Automotive in Del City, OK, for an inspection. To save yourself some time, call us at (405) 670-7730 to schedule an appointment.
