What are the symptoms of a broken compressor?

[LeMaximus]

The symptoms of a broken compressor are that the car's air conditioning cannot cool, and the engine speed does not increase when the air conditioning switch is turned on. The compressor is the heart of the car's air conditioning refrigeration system, responsible for compressing and delivering refrigerant vapor. Compressors can be divided into two types: fixed displacement and variable displacement. Based on different working principles, air conditioning compressors can be categorized as fixed displacement compressors and variable displacement compressors. When the air conditioning system is not in operation, it is essential to regularly check the tightness of the belt to ensure the clutch operates correctly. Sometimes, the clutch can affect the compressor's shaft seal due to bearing damage, leading to refrigerant leakage at the compressor's shaft seal.

[SanCarmen]

The most obvious symptom of a broken car air conditioning compressor is that the AC completely stops cooling. When you turn on the AC, it only blows natural air, not cold at all, no matter how you adjust the temperature. Then, you'll hear abnormal noises from the engine compartment, like clicking or buzzing sounds, especially when starting the AC. A malfunctioning clutch can also cause the AC to turn on and off intermittently—sometimes cooling for a while before stopping again. If there's an issue with the belt, you might hear squealing or grinding noises during operation. All these signs indicate that the compressor may be seized or its internal components have failed. Don’t ignore these signals, or long drives will become increasingly uncomfortable, especially in the summer heat when the car feels like a sauna. Get it checked at a repair shop as soon as possible—delaying repairs will only increase the cost. Remember to pay attention to the AC’s condition during regular maintenance to extend its overall lifespan.

[MaximusLee]

When the compressor malfunctions, the first noticeable symptom is a significant drop or complete loss of air conditioning cooling performance. You might be driving, hoping to cool down, only to find the vents blowing ambient-temperature air. Another key indicator is unusual noises coming from the engine compartment—not the normal operational sounds, but rather squeaking, grinding, or harsh metallic friction noises, possibly accompanied by vibrations felt underfoot. A failed compressor clutch is one of the common culprits, refusing to engage and causing the AC system to shut down entirely. Additionally, if you inspect the engine bay closely, a loose belt may slip, producing a squealing sound, or even snap due to excessive load. These issues not only compromise comfort but can also lead to increased fuel consumption—for instance, system failure caused by refrigerant leakage may demand extra power. If abnormalities are detected, a quick self-check is advisable: listen for unusual noises, feel the belt tension, and observe the compressor's operation. However, for complex repairs or replacements, it’s safer to rely on professional technicians.

[McJameson]

The main symptom I encountered when the compressor failed was the complete malfunction of the air conditioning. After pressing the AUTO button, no cold air came out at all, and the cabin temperature took forever to drop. What's even more annoying was the constant strange noises coming from under the hood, like rattling or buzzing sounds, which varied in intensity with acceleration. This significantly affected the overall driving experience, especially on highways or during long trips, as the lack of cooling air could be distracting, potentially increasing the risk of accidents. Paying attention to these daily symptoms helps in timely repairs and prevents chain reactions like electrical circuit damage.