Where is the car's air conditioning compressor located?
2 Answers
The car's air conditioning compressor is located on the engine. It is driven by a belt connected between the compressor and the engine. You can locate the compressor by identifying the belt position. The function of the car air conditioning compressor is to regulate the start-stop state of the air compressor, allowing it to rest by adjusting the pressure in the air storage tank, which has a maintenance effect on the engine. Types of car air conditioning compressors include: swash plate compressors, vane compressors, scroll compressors, and reciprocating compressors. Their working principle involves drawing refrigerant from the low-pressure area, compressing it, and then sending it to the high-pressure area for cooling and condensation. The heat is dissipated into the air through the radiator, and the refrigerant changes from a gaseous state to a liquid state with increased pressure.
I have been engaged in automotive repair for many years. The air conditioning compressor is typically located in the engine compartment, specifically at the front or side of the engine. It is a metal box-shaped component connected to the engine's drive system via a belt. Its position varies across different vehicle models—for instance, SUVs may have it positioned higher to prevent water ingress, while compact cars place it closer to the center. As the key component of the refrigeration cycle, the compressor pressurizes refrigerant to generate cold air. Its proximity to the engine ensures efficient heat dissipation but also makes it prone to accumulating dust and oil residue, leading to premature wear. For maintenance, regular checks of belt tension and refrigerant levels are recommended to prevent oil leaks or abnormal noise failures. Servicing it before summer driving ensures more stable and reliable AC performance, extending its lifespan.
