How to Tell if Your Car AC Compressor Is Bad
It’s never fun when your car’s air conditioning (AC) isn’t working. It’s especially worrying if your AC compressor is the potential source of the problem. If you suspect that your AC compressor is faulty, here are some ways to confirm it:
1. Listen for noise
As the AC compressor engages and disengages, a working one should make barely any noise. If your AC compressor is making an unusual loud humming or grinding noise, or fails to engage or disengage altogether, it’s likely that its internal components have worn out and need to be replaced.
2. Check for leaks
If the AC compressor is leaking lubricating fluid, it means that it’s getting worn out and losing its internal components. This is a strong indicator that the AC compressor needs to be replaced.
3. Feel for cold air
A faulty AC compressor won’t be able to provide the necessary cooling power to your car’s AC. If the air feels lukewarm instead of cold, it can mean a potential problem with your AC compressor.
4. Look for the dash light
Modern cars come equipped with sensors that can detect when the AC compressor is not functioning correctly. This will activate the AC warning light on your car’s dashboard. If this happens, it’s a sure sign that your AC compressor needs to be replaced.
Once you’ve determined that your AC compressor is bad, there are a few options you can consider:
- Have a mechanic replace it. At this point, it’s easier and more cost-effective to have a mechanic replace the AC compressor instead of trying to figure out which parts are faulty.
- Attempt to repair it yourself. If you have the necessary mechanical expertise, you can attempt to identify and replace the worn internal components. Just make sure that you have the correct AC compressor model to replace the faulty one, and it’s in good working condition.
In any case, it’s best to have a professional look over your car’s AC system to find the problem and make sure it’s fixed right the first time.
Hope this helps you figure out if your AC compressor is bad!
