Lots of car owners are mystified by AC systems, with their hard-to-access parts and high-pressure lines that can be dangerous to work on. AC repairs can also get expensive quickly, which also intimidates many owners. If you’re suspicious that something may be amiss in your car’s AC system, though, there are some simple troubleshooting steps you can take before you take it to an auto repair mechanic.
Listen for unusual noises when the AC is running, usually from the auto AC compressor. If you notice the noise, you can take it from there:
- Check for excessive high-side pressure. Excessive pressure can be caused by poor airflow across the condenser (check for leaves, dust, debris), restriction of the condenser or discharge line, excess charge in the system, or air in the lines.
- Check the compressor’s mounting brackets and make sure they’re not loose, cracked or broken. A compressor that’s sitting out of line due to the bracket will cause deflection on the drive belt, resulting in noise.
- Check for loose mounting bolts on the compressor bracket or contact between the bracket and a switch port plug.
- “Harmonic” noise that is coming from elsewhere as well as the compressor could mean problems with the drive belt, or a misrouted suction line or discharge line. The serpentine belt is one of the regular maintenance items that many drivers neglect until it actually comes apart. Check the belt itself for fraying, cracking, tension, and wear along the edges of the grooves themselves.
If none of these seem to be causing your noise issue, it’d probably be best to take the car to a certified auto mechanic or AC specialist. Forewarned is forearmed, though, and narrowing it down as much as possible before spending money at the shop can work in your favor. If you decide to take on the job yourself, there are plenty of great AC parts supply houses that specialize in new and reman compressors; they’d be glad to help you out.
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