What Causes Loud Noise When Turning on the Car Air Conditioner?
3 Answers
Abnormal noise when the car air conditioner is turned on may be caused by damaged blower fan blades or foreign objects. Below are relevant introductions regarding car air conditioner maintenance: 1. Comprehensive inspection of the air conditioner: When using the air conditioner for the first time, inspect the air conditioning system first, such as checking the refrigerant and whether the air filter is too dirty through the reservoir, and whether there are foreign objects in the radiator. 2. Replace the filter: Pay attention to the cleaning of the air conditioner and replace the air filter regularly. 3. Maintenance of the car air conditioner reservoir: The reservoir should be replaced in time after two years of normal use. Each time the pipeline is disassembled for repair or cleaning, a new reservoir needs to be installed.
I often repair cars and find that small cars making loud noises when the air conditioning is on are mostly due to a few reasons. The compressor is the core component; when it ages or the bearings wear out, it can roar like a tractor. It's also related to the belt tension—if it's too loose, it will slip and produce a sharp sound. The fan could also be problematic; if the blades are covered with dust and clogged, causing poor rotation, it will make a whooshing noise. Air bubbles in the system or insufficient refrigerant can cause the compressor to make a clicking sound when starting. Regularly check if the air filter is dirty, as problems are more likely to occur with frequent use in summer. It's recommended to perform regular maintenance and not delay, otherwise the noise will increase and fuel consumption will rise. Go to the shop early to have it checked and replace parts if necessary to solve the issue.
My car has been running for several years, and the AC makes a rumbling noise as soon as I turn it on, which is quite annoying. I suspect it might be due to debris stuck in the fan or the compressor aging. When I opened the hood to listen, I found the noise coming from the fan area, and cleaning the blades made it quieter. Additionally, if the belt is loose, it can also cause loud noises—worse in summer heat when it's more prone to wear. A clogged AC filter restricting airflow is another common issue. I don’t want to spend much, so I’ll try replacing the filter first; if that doesn’t work, I’ll take it to a mechanic. Parking in dusty areas requires extra care to minimize noise problems.
