Reasons Why Car AC Compressor Not Turning On

Reasons Why Car AC Compressor Not Turning On
Share Now

Table of Contents

A sudden loss of air conditioning in your car can quickly ruin your day. Leaks and compressor problems are the most frequent reasons why air conditioners break. A blocked filter, a cooling fan issue, radiator issues, or the need to recharge your air conditioner could cause hot air.

You don’t have to tolerate a hot, stuffy car, and you don’t have to rely solely on a mechanic to fix it. The most challenging part of finding a solution is often knowing where to begin. This article will guide you through key steps for car AC repair in Sharjah, helping you save a significant amount of money by understanding how to fix your car’s air conditioning.

How Does the A/C Compressor in a Car Work?

Automakers use an electromagnetic clutch to engage and disengage the air conditioning compressor. As previously stated, a magnetic field pulls the clutch towards the pulley. The compressor shaft is then splined to the clutch disc. 

Additionally, the pulley supplies the rotating power required to run the compressor when this occurs. If the clutch engages successfully, the air conditioner’s compressor will start pumping refrigerant through the circuit. 

Why Is the Car AC Compressor Not Turning On?

Low Refrigerant Level

The AC system needs a certain quantity of refrigerant to operate correctly. A too-low level may result in an early compressor failure. Low refrigerant levels or air in the system, which creates friction inside the compressor, could be the reason for the compressor’s failure.

Unclean Condenser

The AC system won’t be able to cool down adequately if the condenser is dusty. A refrigerant level that is too low may result in an early compressor failure. Low refrigerant levels or air in the system, which creates friction inside the compressor, could be the reason for the compressor’s failure.

Blockage in the Evaporator Coil

Over time, the evaporator becomes clogged and requires cleaning by a competent mechanic. Without cleaning, the compressor will work harder than it needs to and may overload.

Inaccurate Pressure Measurements

The AC system uses pressure sensors to identify low or high refrigerant levels. If these sensors malfunction, the controller may misinterpret the signals and prevent the compressor from turning on to avoid system damage.

Insufficient Lubrication

Lack of lubrication is another factor that could be causing your compressor to malfunction. Oil is necessary for the compressor to function properly and prevent damage. Low refrigerant levels or air in the system, which creates friction inside the compressor, may cause this.

Old compressor

Age is the final cause of AC compressor failure. If your car’s air conditioning is older than the original factory’s, a compressor replacement may be necessary. A compressor’s lifespan is roughly ten years on average. Since the compressor is the central component of your air conditioning system, it includes numerous moving elements that frequently sustain damage over time.

How Can I Tell Whether My AC Compressor Issue Is Serious?

Determining when to try a do-it-yourself remedy versus hiring a professional HVAC specialist for AC repair can occasionally be challenging. However, it’s recommended to get in touch with professionals for a professional diagnosis if you observe any of these issues:

  • Regular Cycling On and Off: A common term for this is a hard start, which may result from an electrical issue with the compressor.
  • Diminished Cooling: If your car doesn’t seem as cool as usual, your AC compressor may have malfunctioned because of suction problems. You should have a professional handle this.
  • Overheating: Bad wiring or motor problems can cause your AC compressor to stop functioning. Call a professional whenever your air conditioner’s compressor fails and you see ice or excessive heat.

Compressors in air conditioners can malfunction for several complicated and straightforward reasons. These are only a handful. Generally speaking, it’s advisable to be safe and get the device inspected by an expert to guarantee an accurate diagnosis and repair.

Solving Issues with AC Compressors

Has the compressor in your air conditioner stopped working? Although thorough troubleshooting, maintenance, and repairs typically require a competent HVAC expert, there are a few easy things you can do before contacting a technician:

  • Look for Tripped Breakers: Locate the AC breaker in your service panel. If it is tripped, turn it off and back on. If the issue is minor, you can frequently reset the control board and restart your machine.
  • Check the Thermostat: Verify the thermostat’s settings and that the batteries are new. Unintentional adjustments to the settings may cause the air conditioner to shut off or go idle.
  • Listen for Buzzing: Visit the condenser unit outside when the system is attempting to start. If the AC compressor begins to hum and the system fails to switch on, it might be necessary to replace the start capacitor. It stores high, potentially dangerous voltages, so only a specialist can perform it.
  • Listen for Clicking: There should be a discernible click as the AC compressor engages. If the compressor doesn’t start and you hear a clicking sound repeatedly, the start relay can malfunction. Have an HVAC specialist replace it.

Preventive Upkeep and Attention

Preventive maintenance is the best way to prevent serious AC compressor failures. Professionals can perform diagnostics, controller tests, compressor tune-ups, and inspections to guarantee correct operation. Additionally, we can control reasonable temperature settings, giving you confidence that your air conditioning system will function well. Regular AC compressor maintenance also has the following advantages:

  • Replace outdated compressors before they break down. 
  • Identify minor problems before they become expensive AC emergencies.
  • Utilize a properly adjusted compressor to maintain energy efficiency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is advised to seek advice from a qualified mechanic if you have attempted every troubleshooting procedure listed above and your car’s AC compressor is still not engaging. They possess the knowledge and equipment to identify and resolve complicated AC system problems.

A mechanic can precisely determine the issue’s underlying causeโ€”the controller, connector, battery, or internal resistanceโ€”and perform the required fixes or replacements. It might be hard to drive without a working air conditioning system, especially during hot weather, so don’t put off getting your compressor replaced.

Related Blogs

Scroll to Top