Replace an AC Compressor?

What does an AC compressor do? AC compressor is important to us? The compressor is designed to pump refrigerant through the A/C system and to convert low pressure vapor refrigerant into high pressure vapor refrigerant. It’s probably the most important part of your air conditioning system, ensuring the flow of refrigerant. If yours is starting to fail, you’ll notice the signs—the most common one being air conditioning that doesn’t blow very cold anymore. You also might hear a lot of noise, such as chattering bearings or a squealing belt (if the compressor is seized up). The compressor’s clutch also may not engage and will just stay cycled off all the time. While this may seem like a death sentence—especially in the height of summer—replacing AC compressors isn’t the most complicated task.

Symptoms of a failing A/C compressor

Let’s understand the reason you’re here — symptoms of a failing car air conditioning compressors.

Compressors generally last the lifetime of a car, or approximately 12 to 15+ years depending on how well the car is looked after. In saying that, it’s important that you regularly check up on and service your car to prevent premature failure.

Some ways you can tell if something is failing can include:

• Leaks

often mean that refrigerant will be escaping the system somewhere along the line. Compressor leaks typically happen around the shaft seal, hoses, O-rings and gaskets. They can be hard to spot and might require the use of a special UV dye or electronic leak detector to locate. The refrigerant also carries an oil mist that circulates to keep everything lubricated. Without enough refrigerant, the aircon cycle will not happen and can result in damage to other parts, not just the compressor.

• Odd noises

there could be a few reasons for this one. Either internal parts of the compressor have failed which can result in some unpleasant sounds, or something has seized. The compressor clutch or belt pulley is likely here.

• Lukewarm air

likely due to lack of refrigerant or a failing component, the compressor can’t circulate enough refrigerant to keep the system running smoothly.

• ECU error

if you get a check engine light on your dash, this is a definite sign something more sinister is lurking. The ECU measures voltage signals to parts like the compressor, and can detect malfunctioning signals which might result in incorrect voltage delivery.

• Seized compressor clutch or belt

How to replace the AC compressor?

• Locate the A/C compressor
• Remove the compressor
• Locate the serpentine belt tensioner
• Rotate the tensioner
• Remove the belt from the pulleys
• Disconnect the electrical connectors from the compressor
• Disconnect the pressure hoses from the compressor
• Remove the compressor mounting bolts
• Remove the compressor from the vehicle
• Prepare the new compressor
• Replace the pressure line o-rings
• Lower the new compressor into the vehicle
• Reinstall the mounting bolts
• Reinstall the lines
• Reinstall the electrical connectors
• Position the belt on the pulleys
• Install the new belt

Next Step

Schedule Car AC Compressor Replacement Or Service Check Today.