Air Conditioner Repair
Automobile Air Conditioner Not Working Or Running But Very Slow
A/c Runs Weak In Car
Helpful Information
When an air conditioner system stops working it basically means one of four things has occurred. The compressor is not working, the system cannot exchange heat, the blend doors inside the climate air control plenum are not working or the blower motor is not working.
Best Practices
- Service your A/C system about every two years. Activate your air conditioner system periodically to keep components lubricated.
Step by step repair guide on how to fix an automotive air conditioner. This article pertains to most vehicles.
Difficulty Scale: 3 of 10
Tools and Supplies Needed
Step 1 - With the engine "ON" and the AC turned to the coldest setting the compressor should be turning (Note: This can take up to 2 minutes to come on after the engine is started.) (Note: Make sure the serpentine belt is operational.) Inspect the clutch at the front of the compressor, it should be turning "engaged," if so the system has enough refrigerant to activate but if the system is low on refrigerant it will not work properly. In this case an air conditioner recharge kit is needed to recharge the system. If the system is low on refrigerant it could cycle on and off, making a ticking noise. If the compressor clutch doesn't engage attach a pressure gauge or recharge kit to the low pressure side port to inspect system pressure readings. Please visit - AC System Recharge (Note: If no air is coming out of the vents, and no blower motor is heard (operating) proceed to step 7.) If the systems state of charge is okay and the compressor clutch is not turning, process to next step.
Compressor Clutch Rotation
- Air conditioner recharge kit or gauge set
- Circuit test light
- Protective eyewear and clothing
- Flashlight
Compressor Clutch Rotation
Step 2 - If the state of charge is sufficient and the compressor is still not engaging the electrical system must be checked. With the engine and system still "ON" use a test light and check for power at the compressor clutch, If power is present and not turning the clutch coil has failed and must be replaced. (Note: Some compressor engagement coils or non-serviceable and compressor replacement is required.) If no power is observed proceed to the next step.
An electromagnetic clutch provides the mechanical link between the pulley and the compressor input shaft whenever air conditioning is demanded. The compressor drive hub is usually found at the front of the pulley and is attached directly to the compressor driveshaft. A stationary electromagnetic coil is attached to the face of the compressor, behind the pulley. When current flows through the coil windings, a magnetic field pulls the drive hub snug against the pulley. Now functioning as a unit, they drive the compressor as long as the coil is energized. Although most compressor clutch and drive pulley components can be serviced in the engine compartment, it is advisable to recover the refrigerant and remove the compressor from the vehicle.
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