What Causes the Hissing Sound When the Car Air Conditioner is Turned On?

2 Answers
VonRachel
07/30/25 1:55am
Car air conditioner abnormal noises are generally caused by internal or external issues within the air conditioning system. Internal noises typically occur when there is air or moisture in the refrigerant, leading to abnormal sounds during refrigerant evaporation and expansion, which users perceive as coming from inside the dashboard. External noises are usually due to issues with the air conditioner compressor, where the sound can be heard near the compressor. Below are other possible causes of abnormal noises in car air conditioners: 1. Contaminants in the refrigerant: The noise is often caused by air or moisture mixed into the refrigerant. 2. Damaged internal structure of the compressor: If the noise persists after refrigerant recharge and is located near the compressor, there is a high probability of internal mechanical damage to the compressor. If the noise recurs after some time and originates from inside the dashboard, it is likely due to reduced efficiency of the dryer. The noise heard after starting the air conditioner is primarily the operational noise of the compressor and does not indicate a fault.
Was this review help?
8
4
Share
JayceLee
08/15/25 7:49am
One of the fairly common reasons for a hissing sound when the car's air conditioning is on could be refrigerant leakage, as the refrigerant makes a hissing noise when flowing through the system, similar to air leaking from a small hole. I once encountered a similar situation while driving, and it was a bit annoying because it reduced the cooling efficiency of the AC. Additionally, if the compressor is worn out or malfunctioning, it may produce similar noises during startup or operation. Blockages in the evaporator or condenser pipes or damaged valves can also cause airflow disruptions, leading to such sounds. I suggest first checking the refrigerant pressure to see if there’s a leak. If the noise appears suddenly, it’s best to take the car to a professional repair shop as soon as possible to avoid minor issues turning into major faults. Regular maintenance of the AC system, including cleaning the pipes and checking seals, can help prevent such problems. Overall, this isn’t just a noise issue—it affects safety and comfort, so don’t ignore it.
Was this review help?
20
3
Share
Expand All
More Forum Discussions

Is There a Charge for Checking Fault Codes at a 4S Shop?

Whether checking fault codes at a 4S shop incurs a charge generally depends on the following two aspects: 1. If the vehicle is within the warranty period, fault detection at the 4S shop is usually free of charge. 2. If the warranty period has expired, fault detection at the 4S shop usually requires a fee. Below are the common practices of 4S shops when a vehicle experiences a fault: (1) Technicians typically use a diagnostic computer to read the fault codes first. The electronic systems in modern vehicles are highly advanced. If a fault occurs in any part of the car, the computer will generate a fault code. Technicians can read these codes with a diagnostic computer, which helps them quickly identify the cause and location of the fault. (2) If the fault code cannot be read with the computer, the technicians at the 4S shop will assess the possible faulty parts based on the symptoms described by the owner. They will then conduct a test drive and finally troubleshoot the issue.
12
0
Share

Do modern cars still need to be warmed up before driving in winter?

Modern cars still need to be warmed up before driving in winter. Since winter temperatures are much lower than other seasons, the engine warms up relatively slower. After starting the vehicle, friction occurs between the engine and various moving parts. If these components suddenly operate at high speeds, prolonged exposure to such conditions may cause damage. Therefore, warming up the car is essential. Here's the correct way to warm up your car in winter: After starting the vehicle, drive at low speeds. This prevents unlubricated components from undergoing intense operation that could lead to damage. During this time, simply maintain the engine speed at around 2000 RPM, and wait until the engine coolant reaches normal operating temperature before driving normally.
1
4
Share

What should be paid attention to when repairing the differential?

When repairing the differential, the following points should be noted: 1. First remove the oil filler hole screw and drain the lubricating oil inside the differential; 2. Use a hex wrench to first remove the small pressure cover, take off the bearing snap ring on the pulley seat, use a puller to remove the belt pulley, and then remove the pulley seat; then use the hex wrench to remove the left end cover of the differential, use a pry bar to take out the first-stage planetary carrier, then remove the first and second-stage differential housing, remove the right end cover, and take out the third-stage and second-stage planetary carriers; 3. Disassemble the first, second, and third-stage planetary carriers separately, clean and inspect all gears, bearings, and the inner sleeves of the planetary carriers. The surfaces should be free of wear, and the bearing clearance should be kept within the fixed range. If there is any wear, they must be replaced; 4. Clean and inspect. After disassembly, the differential housing and planetary gears must be thoroughly cleaned to ensure normal meshing between the gears; 5. During the disassembly and repair of the differential, hammering or striking is not allowed. The integrity of the parts must be ensured. If necessary, a copper hammer or copper rod can be used; 6. The platform for repairing the differential must be covered with a rubber mat to prevent hard contact between parts.
7
1
Share

Which is Faster: Automatic or Manual Transmission?

Whether a manual transmission accelerates faster than an automatic transmission depends on the specific type of transmission: 1. CVT transmission: Manual transmission accelerates faster than automatic. 2. Dual-clutch transmission: Automatic transmission accelerates faster than manual. Below are the differences between manual and automatic transmissions: 1. Different levels of operational difficulty: Manual transmissions are suitable for skilled drivers; automatic transmissions are suitable for beginners. 2. Different structures: Manual transmissions have a clutch; automatic transmissions do not. 3. Characteristics of manual transmissions: Quick response, stable performance, good fuel economy, and strong power. 4. Characteristics of automatic transmissions: Extends the lifespan of components, improves vehicle performance, and reduces air pollution.
9
0
Share

Should Vehicle Maintenance Be Based on Mileage or Time?

Whether to perform maintenance based on time or mileage generally follows the principle of whichever comes first. There is no fixed answer, as car owners need to analyze their vehicle's specific conditions to determine the optimal approach. Here is a brief introduction to vehicle maintenance: (1) Routine Maintenance: Typically performed every 5,000KM (or 7,500KM for some models), it mainly involves changing the engine oil and oil filter, inspecting the fuel filter (many modern vehicles no longer have one), and checking the air filter—replacing them if excessively dirty. Additionally, each maintenance session must include an inspection of the brake discs and pads for potential replacement, checking the brake fluid level, and assessing tire conditions to ensure safety. (2) Periodic Maintenance: Usually conducted every 3 years or every 40,000KM. Beyond routine maintenance, it includes cleaning the fuel injectors, throttle body, and the vehicle's intake system. Furthermore, it requires replacing transmission fluid, front and rear axle oil, coolant, and brake fluid. Tire wear should also be inspected, with replacements made if necessary. (3) Major Maintenance: Typically occurs after the vehicle has traveled 100,000KM, involving a comprehensive inspection and replacement of parts as needed. Special attention should be paid to the wiring (electrical circuits) and transmission mechanisms during this phase.
8
3
Share

What Are the Reasons for No Hot Air in a Car?

Car no hot air reasons are as follows: 1. Thermostat failure, causing the cooling system to prematurely enter a large circulation cycle resulting in no hot air. 2. Dirty or clogged air filter, affecting the effectiveness of the hot air. 3. Broken heater control button, unable to transmit the corresponding hot air supply signal, leading to no warm air. 4. Clogged heater core, preventing coolant from passing through the small radiator resulting in no hot air. Below is the principle of car hot air: When the car air conditioning is heating, the high-temperature coolant from the engine flows through the heater core. At this time, the air blown by the blower also passes through the heater core, allowing the car air conditioning vents to blow out warm air.
19
2
Share
Cookie
Cookie Settings
© 2025 Servanan International Pte. Ltd.