What Causes Vehicle Vibration When the Air Conditioning is On?
2 Answers
The reasons for vehicle vibration when the air conditioning is on are: 1. Damage to the air conditioning acceleration device; 2. Carbon buildup in the throttle; 3. Collapse or damage to the engine mounts; 4. Seizure of the air conditioning compressor. The automotive air conditioning system consists of a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator. Automotive air conditioning, short for the vehicle's air conditioning system, is used to regulate and control the temperature, humidity, air cleanliness, and airflow inside the vehicle cabin to an optimal state. Its functions are: 1. Providing passengers with a comfortable environment, reducing travel fatigue; 2. Creating favorable working conditions for the driver, ensuring safe driving.
I also experienced the annoyance of car shaking when turning on the AC before. Once the AC was on, I could clearly feel vibrations in the seat or steering wheel. Later, I consulted professionals, and they explained that it's mainly because the AC compressor increases the engine's load after starting, meaning the engine has to work extra hard to drive it. If the idle speed is already unstable—for example, due to worn spark plugs or issues with the ignition system—the additional load makes shaking more likely. Some cars have insufficient or aged belt tension, and if the compressor seizes, it can't be driven properly. Also, if the engine mounts are worn, the vibrations become more noticeable. When I dealt with it last time, I replaced the spark plugs myself, and the situation improved significantly. Remember, AC-induced shaking isn't just a minor issue—delaying repairs might affect driving safety, especially on highways where engine instability or stalling could be dangerous. It's best to get it checked early, such as visiting a repair shop to inspect the electrical system or belts.
