How to Determine if the Car Air Conditioning Pump is Faulty?

[MacDante]

The air conditioning does not cool, and the engine speed does not increase when the AC switch is turned on. Check if the compressor's working voltage is sufficient. If not, there is a circuit fault; if it is sufficient, then the compressor is faulty.

[DiRemington]

When my car's air conditioning system has issues, I always check if the AC pump is faulty first. The AC pump is the compressor, and if it fails, the air conditioning won't cool. Common signs include reduced cooling efficiency or no response when turning on the AC, unusual noises like clicking or humming inside the car, and sometimes vibrations in the engine compartment. I also check if the clutch is engaging properly—start the engine and turn on the AC; if the pump doesn't respond, the clutch might be malfunctioning. Additionally, look for refrigerant leaks, such as oil stains on the ground or a sweet smell. Belt slippage is another signal—feel the belt by hand to see if it's loose. If the pump is broken, it must be repaired promptly, or driving in summer will be unbearable! For repairs, I prefer to leave it to professional shops, as DIY attempts might damage the car. Remember, these signs are more accurate when considered together.

[PaisleeDella]

As someone who enjoys tinkering with cars, when I suspect the AC compressor is faulty, I start with the basics. First, I start the car and turn on the AC to listen for any unusual noises from the compressor, like screeching or sticking sounds—that usually means the pump is jammed. Next, I check the belt section—if the compressor pulley is too loose or slipping, the belt will make a hissing noise. Don’t forget to inspect the fuse; if it’s blown, just replace it for testing. When doing DIY checks, I use a refrigerant pressure gauge to measure the pressure—low readings indicate the pump might be struggling to circulate the refrigerant. A failing compressor often turns cold air into warm air. I once fixed this in the summer—exhausting but rewarding! Still, don’t push yourself too hard; if it gets complicated, call a mechanic to avoid accidents. And remember, regular compressor maintenance extends its lifespan.

[AsherLynn]

I determine that the car's air conditioning compressor is faulty mainly through the obvious sign of the AC not cooling. If the air blown out after turning on the AC isn't cold, or the car suddenly becomes warm, that's a big problem. Listen for unusual noises in the engine compartment, such as clicking sounds, which likely indicate compressor damage. The inspection method is simple: after parking, open the hood and check if the compressor pulley is turning; if it's not, it's seized. Also, watch for refrigerant leaks—smell the ground for any strange odors or oil stains. A faulty compressor is no small matter, so I take the car directly to a repair shop for diagnosis to avoid wasting time. Professional equipment can accurately identify the fault. Pay attention to this during daily driving to prevent issues before they arise.