What are the causes of abnormal noises in car air conditioning?
4 Answers
Reasons for abnormal noises in car air conditioning: 1. Lack of lubrication due to insufficient refrigerant oil inside the compressor, causing metal friction sounds when the compressor's electromagnetic clutch engages; 2. Abnormal noises caused by excessive tension on the air conditioning belt; 3. Malfunction of the electromagnetic clutch, with damaged internal bearings producing abnormal sounds. The car air conditioning system is a device that cools, heats, ventilates, and purifies the air inside the vehicle, including refrigeration units, heating units, and ventilation devices. This combined system makes full use of the limited space inside the car, featuring a simple structure that is easy to operate. Car air conditioning provides a comfortable environment for passengers, reduces driver fatigue, and enhances driving safety.
There are many common causes of abnormal noises in car air conditioning systems, and I've encountered quite a few situations while repairing cars myself. The compressor may squeal, producing that harsh noise if the bearings are damaged or if the belt is loose and slipping. Then there's the blower fan blades - if they're clogged with leaves or dust, the AC will produce a constant buzzing sound when turned on. Additionally, refrigerant leaks can also cause abnormal noises as the system becomes unbalanced and the compressor doesn't work properly. I've also seen cases where a clogged expansion valve restricted refrigerant flow, creating a squeaking sound. When you notice unusual sounds from your car's AC while driving, it's advisable to check immediately rather than delay. You can start by identifying the sound source yourself: noises from the front compartment usually indicate compressor or belt issues, while sounds inside the cabin are mostly blower-related. Regular cleaning of the AC air intake can prevent foreign object blockages. If the noise persists, visit a professional repair shop promptly to avoid minor issues turning into major repairs.
I once experienced a squeaking noise from the AC while driving my old car on the highway, and later found out it was due to a loose belt. Common causes include worn compressor bearings, a stuck blower motor, or foreign objects like leaves in the air ducts. If the compressor bearings are damaged, they can produce noise when rotating. The blower, located behind the glove box, can resonate if the fan blades are dirty. Insufficient refrigerant can also cause strange noises due to unstable system pressure. Handling it is quite simple—I usually listen closely to the engine compartment to locate the source. For belt issues, try tightening it slightly, but avoid over-tightening. Clearing debris from the fan usually solves the problem. Remember, unusual noises indicate a problem—don’t wait for it to worsen. Regularly replacing the cabin air filter (recommended every six months) can reduce noise. If the noise is loud, don’t skimp on repairs—safety first, as a broken AC can make driving uncomfortably hot.
When driving a new energy vehicle, if the air conditioning suddenly makes a buzzing noise, it is usually caused by compressor or fan failure. Worn compressor bearings or a damaged belt can produce metal friction sounds; if the fan motor is obstructed by debris, there will be abnormal noise at high airflow. It could also be due to refrigerant leakage, causing system imbalance. It's best to turn off the engine immediately and check for belt cracks or dirty fan blades. A simple method: listen for the sound source before turning on the air conditioning. Regular maintenance should include cleaning the air intake to prevent issues.
