What is the reason for the car compressor turning on and off intermittently?
4 Answers
Compressor intermittently working and stopping is a phenomenon of compressor protection, which is the recovery time of the compressor's thermal protector. Normally, it only takes a dozen to several dozen minutes, but after prolonged use, these values may change. The main reasons for protection are threefold: 1. Lack of refrigerant: This causes the compressor's exhaust temperature to trigger thermal protection. Even if there are white bubbles at the needle valve, it only indicates the presence of refrigerant in the system, but the amount and whether there is a deficiency cannot be determined. 2. Excessive compressor exhaust pressure: This leads to increased operating current, which in turn triggers current thermal protection. There are many possible causes, such as poor ventilation of the external heat exchanger, clogged heat exchanger, or malfunctioning external fan motor, all of which can result in this situation. 3. Faulty thermal protector of the compressor: This situation is troublesome and usually requires replacing the compressor. If this is the case, it might be better to replace it with a new compressor.
I've been repairing cars for over a decade and often encounter issues with the compressor cycling on and off. Most of the time, it's due to refrigerant leaks causing insufficient pressure, which triggers the system to protectively shut down the compressor. Alternatively, it could be caused by wear and tear on the compressor clutch, leading to poor contact—when the current is interrupted, the compressor stops. Electrical issues, such as aging switches, relays, or wiring, can also cause intermittent contact. Another common reason is system overheating, which forces the compressor to shut down automatically to prevent damage. You should pay attention to the air conditioning performance—if cooling is weak or the compressor frequently starts and stops, get it checked early. A system pressure test is a basic step, as blockages in the lines or component corrosion can't be ruled out. I recommend visiting a professional repair shop for diagnosis—don't wait until the compressor fails completely, leading to bigger losses. Delaying repairs could also affect other components like the condenser. Safe driving is important, so ensure cabin comfort.
I've been driving for decades and have encountered situations where the air conditioning compressor works intermittently. That time, it was during a long summer drive when I noticed the cooling wasn't effective. After inspection, I found out it was due to a Freon leak, which was fixed by topping it up. Compressor clutch rust causing intermittent jamming is also a common issue; loose old wire connections or aging fuses can cut off the current. I've learned my lesson and now perform regular maintenance, especially since older cars are more prone to these minor problems. The compressor's cycle should be smooth, but abnormal intermittency indicates internal components are degrading. Don't worry if the compressor overheats and shuts off in hot weather—it's just a protective measure. Just take it to the repair shop as soon as possible instead of trying to fix it yourself to avoid accidental damage. A broken compressor not only affects comfort but may also harm other parts of the engine. Early repairs save trouble and ensure safety, giving peace of mind while driving.
I just learned DIY car repair. When dealing with a compressor that intermittently stops working, you can start with some simple checks. For example, see if the fuse has blown and try replacing it with a new one; or check if the belt is slipping and needs tension adjustment. If the system is low on refrigerant, the compressor might shut down as a self-protection measure. Cleaning the electrical contact points could also help. Don't force it, as you might damage the compressor components—it's better to take it to a professional auto shop where they can diagnose it with proper tools. Always prioritize safety. These issues are usually minor and can be fixed with simple repairs, but delaying them can lead to more complex and costly problems.
