What are the causes of refrigerant leakage in car compressors?
2 Answers
There are two main causes of refrigerant leakage in car compressors: pipeline sealing failure, corrosion of the condenser or evaporator; and excessively high compressor temperature melting the pipeline seals at connection points. Relevant information is as follows: 1. Inspection method: Add fluorescent dye along with the refrigerant. After driving the vehicle for a week, use a specialized UV lamp to inspect the air conditioning system. If any leakage points glow, it indicates that component is damaged. 2. Refrigerant deficiency check: If the car's air conditioning compressor operates normally and provides cooling, with normal compressor shutdown and restart when reaching temperature, this indicates slight refrigerant deficiency. If the car's air conditioning blows hot air and the compressor runs continuously without shutting down, this indicates severe refrigerant deficiency in the system.
As a veteran driver with over twenty years of experience, I've encountered several instances where the air conditioning wasn't cooling properly, all related to compressor refrigerant leaks. There are several main reasons for refrigerant leaks: First, the sealing rings on the connecting pipes have aged. Over time, the rubber hardens and loses elasticity, making it easier for the refrigerant to escape. Second, the joints may have loosened or weren't tightened properly, often due to improper installation during repairs. Third, the compressor itself may have cracks, possibly caused by mechanical damage from road bumps. Fourth, metal pipes can corrode, especially in coastal areas where high humidity and salt content can lead to rust and perforation over time. Once there's a refrigerant leak, the air conditioning efficiency drops, making summer drives uncomfortable and increasing fuel consumption. I recommend regular checks of the air conditioning system, especially before long trips. It's best to visit a repair shop for a professional pressure test with specialized equipment to detect and fix issues early.