Reasons for Oil Leakage in Automotive Air Conditioning Compressors?
2 Answers
Here are the reasons for oil leakage in automotive air conditioning compressors: 1. Avoid blockage of the check valve and vent valve: If the check valve or vent valve is blocked, it will cause the temperature inside the housing to rise, filling the entire space with oil vapor. This increases the pressure inside the housing and adds resistance to the piston's movement, leading to increased oil consumption. Additionally, the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the housing can often cause oil leakage at weak sealing points. 2. Ensure the sealing of various oil pipe joints: The connecting pipe nuts used in engineering machinery are frequently disassembled and reassembled, making them prone to loosening due to stripped threads or broken fasteners. Poor precision in the flare of the two joints, misalignment of the conical surfaces' centerlines, or different cone angles can all lead to oil seepage. The conical sealing surfaces can be repaired by lapping to ensure the nuts are tightly fastened and reliably sealed.
In all my years of repairing cars, air conditioning compressor oil leaks are quite common. The most frequent cause is aging or damaged seals, which become brittle and leak oil when exposed to high temperatures or prolonged sun exposure. Wear and tear on internal compressor components like pistons and bearings can also lead to oil seepage, often accompanied by unusual noises or poor cooling performance. Loose or improperly installed pipe connections, especially if fittings aren't tightened properly, can result in visible oil stains. Refrigerant leaks are another culprit—they corrode the pipes and indirectly cause oil leaks. I've seen many car owners ignore minor leaks, only to end up with a completely burnt-out compressor and doubled repair costs. So if you spot any oil leakage, don't delay—get it checked by a professional shop for seal integrity and pressure system issues. Replacing a small part can prevent major trouble.
