Does a Car Air Conditioning Compressor Need an Oil Change?
2 Answers
When replacing a car air conditioning compressor, new refrigerant oil needs to be added. There are three main methods for adding compressor refrigerant oil: first, direct filling; second, filling from the high-pressure side; and third, filling from the low-pressure side. The method can be chosen flexibly based on the specific situation. Safety precautions when handling refrigerant: 1. Handling: Do not handle refrigerant in enclosed spaces or near open flames. 2. Avoidance: Avoid liquid refrigerant entering the eyes or splashing onto the skin. 3. Equipment: Do not point the bottom of the refrigerant canister at people, as some canisters have emergency venting devices at the bottom. 4. Temperature: Do not place the refrigerant canister directly in hot water with a temperature exceeding 40°C.
Having driven for over 20 years, whether to replace the air conditioning compressor oil depends on the situation. The refrigerant lubricating oil inside the compressor is like blood—it lubricates the rotating parts and helps with sealing. Under normal circumstances, if the air conditioning system hasn't been touched, there's usually no need to replace the oil, as it operates in a closed cycle and won't run low. However, if the AC lines have been repaired or the compressor has been replaced, new oil is a must! Last time, my buddy's car had a leak fixed, but the mechanic forgot to replace the oil, and the new compressor failed within six months. Older cars especially need attention—if the oil degrades and loses viscosity, it can affect cooling efficiency, reduce refrigeration performance, and increase fuel consumption. It's recommended to check the compressor's condition during major maintenance. For vehicles with over 80,000 kilometers or those older than ten years, it's best to inspect the oil color—if it turns black, it needs replacement. Maintaining the sealing system is a small cost to avoid major repairs.
