What are the reasons for the car air conditioning compressor not working?
3 Answers
Reasons for the car air conditioning compressor not working: 1. Circuit system failure, short circuit or open circuit in the circuit directly loses the path for power transmission, and the electromagnetic clutch cannot normally control the working state of the compressor; 2. Lack of refrigerant, refrigerant and refrigeration oil are mutually soluble, circulating back to the compressor through the system. If the Freon in the refrigerant is exhausted, it will lead to insufficient oil return of the refrigeration oil, reducing the lubrication effect of the compressor and causing it to jam and damage; 3. Mechanical wear of the compressor, long-term operation under high-speed load conditions may cause premature mechanical wear of compressor parts, making it unable to work; 4. The belt is too tight, excessive tightness of the belt will directly cause the compressor to jam and not operate, so it is necessary to frequently check the tightness of the belt. At the same time, excessive looseness will cause the compressor's transmission power to slip, resulting in intermittent refrigeration effects and reduced power.
I just finished repairing my friend's car, which had a non-functioning AC compressor. The most common causes are a blown fuse or relay failure, so the first step is to check the fuse box in the engine compartment for any melted fuses. It could also be an electrical issue, such as aging wiring with poor contact or a short circuit, preventing current from reaching the compressor. Compressor failure itself is also common—if its internal motor burns out or the belt snaps, it will stop working entirely. Another possible cause is a refrigerant leak in the AC system, leading to insufficient pressure, as the safety mechanism will automatically shut it down. Malfunctioning switches or temperature control sensors can also trigger the issue. I recommend being cautious when attempting DIY repairs—first test the fuses and belt tension. If that doesn’t solve the problem, take it to a professional shop for a full inspection. Don’t let it ruin your summer drives and end up increasing repair costs. Regular maintenance, including cleaning system components, can help prevent these issues.
I've experienced this issue before. When a car's AC compressor stops working, the causes are usually simple but varied. Blown fuses are common, especially on bumpy roads where they can loosen and melt—just locate the fuse using your car manual and replace it. Poor electrical connections often occur due to aged plugs or moisture corrosion interrupting signals. If the compressor itself fails from bearing wear or overheating burnout, a replacement is needed. Low pressure is critical—Freon leaks prevent the pump from starting, accompanied by weakened cooling. Belt slippage or breakage frequently happens in older vehicles, so check the tensioner. My advice for beginners: don't panic. Troubleshoot step-by-step from simple to complex—first test the AC button response before heading out in sweltering heat. Safety-wise, a faulty compressor strains the engine; prompt repairs prevent cascading damage. Noticing unusual noises during maintenance is a smart habit.
