Where is the car air conditioning compressor located?
3 Answers
Car air conditioning compressors are installed on the engine. The compressor is driven by a belt connected to the engine, so you can locate the compressor by following the belt. More information about car air conditioning compressors is as follows: 1. The car air conditioning compressor is the heart of the car air conditioning refrigeration system, responsible for compressing and transporting refrigerant vapor. Compressors are divided into fixed displacement and variable displacement types. 2. Based on different working principles, air conditioning compressors can be categorized into fixed displacement compressors and variable displacement compressors.
When I usually work on cars and pop the hood, the A/C compressor is located at the front side of the engine, typically a silver metal cylinder-shaped component with a belt connected to the engine crankshaft pulley. To locate it, follow the A/C lines—the one with two thumb-thick rubber hoses attached is it, usually situated below the alternator or next to the water pump. Last time I replaced a compressor on a Japanese car, I had to remove the intake hose to reach it, while some German models hide it behind the bumper bracket. During the rainy season, pay extra attention to the compressor bracket—rust can cause belt misalignment, leading not only to ineffective A/C cooling but also squeaky noises.
While tinkering with my vintage car in the garage, I discovered the compressor is most likely lurking near the engine belt. That contraption resembles a tin can, bolted to the side of the engine block with threaded metal pipes branching from it. Once when cleaning the engine, foam hissed upon contact, revealing its hidden cooling fins. Modern vehicles conceal them better – last time I helped a neighbor inspect their hybrid, the compressor was sandwiched between the motor and battery, requiring underbody panel removal for access. A loose compressor belt causes noticeable engine shudder when the AC kicks in.
