Mac's Auto Repair

Car AC Compressor Failure: 9 Reasons Why This Happens

Car AC Compressor

If your car’s air conditioner stops working, there could be any number of issues. Luckily, not all of these issues are expensive fixes. There could be power failure due to a loose wire in your air conditioner. Or a clogged air filter must be impeding the air flow to the system.

In this blog, we have outlined the 9 most common issues that could cause problems in your AC. But no matter how big or small the issue might be, it’s important to get the problem diagnosed and fixed as soon as possible. Auto air conditioning repair shops can help you troubleshoot the problem and get your AC back up and running again. If you’re having trouble with your car’s air conditioner, don’t wait – head to an auto AC repair shop today.

How does the AC compressor work?

Your car’s compressor is one of the key components of your car’s air conditioning system. The compressor’s job is to compress the refrigerant gas and pump it through the system so that it can remove heat and humidity from the air.

The compressor is usually very reliable, but if it fails before its expected life span (10 to 15 years), it is often due to an underlying cause that is preventable. If it does fail, it can be expensive or impossible to fix. By maintaining your car’s air conditioning system, you can help prevent compressor failure and keep your car cool in the summer months.

9 Reasons for AC compressor failure

When an AC compressor fails, it’s often the result of an underlying issue that has caused stress on the system. By addressing these underlying issues, you can help prevent AC compressor failure.

1. Dirty air filter

A dry air filter is one of the most common reasons for a car’s AC compressor failure. The filter keeps dirt and other particles out of the compressor, but if it’s dirty, it can cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, make sure to change your air filter regularly and keep it clean.

2. Low refrigerant level

If the refrigerant level in your car is low, it can cause the AC compressor to overheat. To prevent this, make sure to keep your car’s refrigerant level at the correct level.

3. Defective relay

A defective relay can cause the AC compressor to overheat. If you think your relay may be defective, have it checked by a mechanic.

4. Leaky hose

A leaky hose can also cause the AC compressor to overheat. If you think your hose may be leaking, have it checked by a mechanic.

5. Faulty fan motor

If the fan motor in your AC unit is faulty, it can cause the AC compressor to overheat. To prevent this, make sure to replace your fan motor if it’s faulty.

6. Faulty AC clutch

If the AC clutch in your car is faulty, it can cause the AC compressor to overheat. To prevent this, make sure to replace your AC clutch if it’s faulty.

7. Blocked condenser fins

The condenser fins on your car’s AC unit help dissipate heat and keep the unit cool. If they’re blocked or covered in dirt, they can cause the AC compressor to overheat. To prevent this, make sure to clean them regularly and keep them clear of debris.

8. Clogged expansion valve

The expansion valve helps regulate the flow of refrigerant in your car’s AC unit. If it’s clogged, it can cause the AC compressor to overheat. To prevent this, make sure to clean it regularly and keep it clear of debris.

9. Blown fuse or tripped breaker

One of the most common reasons for a car’s AC compressor to fail is an electrical issue. This can be caused by a problem with the power supply, the circuit that powers the system, or a break in the electrical connection. If you suspect that an electrical issue is to blame for your compressor failure, it’s best to take your car to a qualified mechanic for repair. With their knowledge and expertise, they’ll be able to pinpoint the root of the problem and get your AC up and running again in no time.

Those are the 9 top causes of car AC compressor failure. To prevent your compressor from failing, make sure to keep an eye on these potential problems and have them fixed as soon as possible. If your compressor does fail, don’t panic! These solutions will help you get it up and running again in no time.

Auto Air Conditioning Repair in Chandler, AZ

At Mac’s Complete Auto Repair, we aim to be your one-stop service shop for all your HVAC needs in Chandler, Arizona. Whether you’re experiencing a relatively small issue like a weak fan or an unpleasant smell, or a more critical problem like a bad compressor, our team of skilled technicians is here to help. We understand that HVAC problems can be both frustrating and expensive, which is why we offer a variety of services at competitive prices.

Our auto repair mechanics are experts at diagnosing cooling and heating issues. Using state-of-the-art computer-aided scanners, they can quickly determine the source of the problem. They then inspect the entire system to ensure that there are no other potential issues. Once they have a complete understanding of the situation, they provide an honest report to our service advisors.

Our service advisors will then recommend the best and most cost-efficient repair plan. We only recommend repairs that are absolutely necessary. We never try to upsell our customers on unnecessary services. Our goal is to get your car back on the road as quickly as possible without breaking your budget. We also offer a convenient online booking system so you can schedule an appointment at a time that’s convenient for you. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help keep your HVAC system running smoothly.

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