How to Tell If a Car's Compressor is Broken?

[DiReese]

Car compressor damage manifests most simply as the air conditioning not cooling. Here is relevant information: 1. The air conditioning compressor plays the role of compressing and driving the refrigerant in the air conditioning system. Once the compressor is damaged, the most obvious manifestation is naturally the air conditioning not cooling. Apart from reduced cooling effectiveness, the simplest method is to check whether the engine speed increases when the air conditioning cooling switch is turned on. 2. Another possibility is that the engine speed increases and the compressor clutch engages, but if the compressor seizes, it means the compressor is scrapped. Additionally, it could be due to refrigerant contamination with water or oil seal damage, causing incompressible liquid to enter the compressor and resulting in compressor piston damage.

[ElenaFitz]

Recently, I've repaired quite a few cars and found that the most common symptom of a broken compressor is the air conditioning not cooling, blowing hot air instead of cold air, making it uncomfortably stuffy even when driving on the highway. Another obvious sign is a harsh, abnormal noise under the hood, like metal grinding or a buzzing sound, especially noticeable when the AC is turned on. I've also noticed that the compressor's belt can wear out and become loose, so it's good to check for cracks or slackness in the belt. Some cars may also experience refrigerant leaks, where you can see oily wet spots or detect a strange smell when you open the hood. Never underestimate these signs—ignoring them could lead to the entire AC system failing or even cause engine overheating issues. So, it's best to get it checked by a professional repair shop promptly to save yourself hassle and trouble.

[LeFrancisco]

Last month, my car's air conditioning suddenly failed on the highway. The fan was still blowing normally, but the air wasn't cold at all—it felt like warm air, leaving me sweating profusely. Then, a continuous squeaking noise started coming from the engine area. When I stopped to check, I noticed a few drops of oil leaking on the ground near the compressor. I immediately took it to the repair shop. The mechanic confirmed it was indeed a compressor failure and also checked the related wiring and refrigerant levels for any issues. This incident reminded me of the importance of regular maintenance for the air conditioning system to avoid disruptions during summer trips that could ruin the mood. Driving without AC is uncomfortable and leads to additional repair costs—definitely not worth it.

[VonRhett]

If you suspect a problem with the compressor, a simple method is to start the engine and listen for any abnormal noises, such as a continuous humming or screeching sound. Then check under the hood for any signs of oil leakage or unusual odors. If the air from the AC isn't cold, that's a typical issue. It's recommended to first try turning on the AC to feel any changes in airflow and get it repaired promptly to prevent the issue from worsening.