What are the causes of abnormal noise in a car's air conditioning pump?
3 Answers
Car air conditioning pump abnormal noise causes are: 1. The electromagnetic clutch is contaminated with sewage or mud, causing damage to the inner bearing and resulting in abnormal noise; 2. Loose drive belt increases the load on the electromagnetic clutch; 3. Repeated engagement of the electromagnetic clutch leads to insufficient power generation from the alternator; 4. Excessive gap between the electromagnetic clutch and the compressor; 5. Lack of lubricating oil inside the compressor. Functions of car air conditioning: 1. Drawing in fresh air from outside for ventilation and air exchange, preventing window fogging; 2. Removing dust, odors, smoke, and toxic gases from the car's interior air, making the air inside the car fresh, and humidifying the car's interior air to increase relative humidity.
I've found that there are many reasons for abnormal noises from car air conditioning pumps, the most common being loose or worn belts. I drive frequently, and sometimes aging belts can slip, producing hissing or squeaking sounds. Additionally, insufficient refrigerant can cause the pump to overwork, generating humming or vibrating noises. I remember one time when I checked myself, a refrigerant leak made the sound louder. Also, internal compressor components like worn bearings can easily cause grinding noises, possibly due to insufficient lubrication or clutch issues leading to poor control. If you hear abnormal noises, don't ignore them, because delaying repairs can cause the entire system to fail, especially in summer when no air conditioning is unbearable. It's recommended to have a mechanic check the belt and refrigerant levels during every maintenance session, as forming this habit can save you trouble. Early detection, such as noting the location of the sound or changes in volume during startup, can prevent major repairs, and professional shops can handle it quickly.
The causes behind abnormal noises from the AC compressor are diverse. From a mechanical perspective, worn compressor bearings or clutch failures are the most common issues. During my car hobby experience, I've observed that bearing wear typically produces grinding or rattling sounds, especially in older vehicles or those lacking timely maintenance. Excessively high or insufficient refrigerant levels can also cause the pump to operate unevenly, resulting in constant humming noises that shorten its lifespan. Another factor is insufficient lubrication in the system, leading to increased internal friction and squeaking sounds. Additionally, a faulty belt tensioner or misaligned pulley can cause squealing noises. I recommend using simple diagnostic tools, such as sound detection apps, to locate the noise source. For repairs, start by inspecting the belt for cracks. In severe cases, replacing the compressor is necessary—it's more cost-effective to spend on repairs than risk complete failure. Regular maintenance, like checking the AC system during oil changes, can prevent 90% of these issues.
