How to Deal with Abnormal Noise from Car Air Conditioning Pump?
3 Answers
If you are unsure, it is recommended to promptly take your car to a 4S shop for inspection and repair. Ignoring the issue will only make the noise worse. The compressor requires reliable lubrication during operation. When the compressor lacks lubricating oil, severe abnormal noise will occur inside the compressor. Repeated engagement of the electromagnetic clutch can also cause abnormal noise in the compressor. For example, insufficient power generation from the alternator.
A few days ago, my car's AC compressor also made abnormal noises. At first, it was just a buzzing sound. I tried to inspect it myself by opening the hood to locate the source of the noise near the compressor area and checking if the belt was loose or cracked. If it's a belt issue, you might be able to tighten it yourself, but if it's the bearing or the compressor itself, you'd need a professional. A faulty compressor bearing produces a metal grinding noise, while insufficient refrigerant causes a hissing sound. In my case, it turned out to be a refrigerant leak, and adding refrigerant fixed it. However, internal compressor part failures are the most troublesome, often requiring a full replacement. Don't ignore unusual noises, especially in summer when the AC is used frequently—early action can save you big money.
I have experience with noisy A/C compressors, and the key is to address it promptly without ignoring it. As soon as you hear abnormal noises, turn off the A/C immediately to reduce the compressor load. The inspection steps are simple: open the hood to locate the noise source, check if the belt tension is appropriate, and feel the A/C lines for abnormal vibrations. If the belt is worn out, it needs to be replaced. For bearing noise, you can replace just the bearing. Once, my car made a clicking noise when cooling, and the mechanic said it was due to worn internal clutch plates—cost a few hundred to replace the parts. Regular maintenance is also crucial: clean the condenser annually and check the refrigerant pressure. If you can't handle it yourself, take it to a professional shop—they have specialized tools to test the system's sealing.
