Why Does a Car Compressor Fail?
2 Answers
Compressor failure is caused by liquid slugging, oil shortage, and insufficient lubrication. Below is an analysis of compressor damage: 1. Liquid Slugging: This phenomenon occurs when liquid refrigerant and lubricating oil are sucked into the compressor cylinder along with gas, damaging the suction valve plates. Reducing or preventing liquid from entering the cylinder can avoid liquid slugging, making it entirely preventable. 2. Oil Shortage and Insufficient Lubrication: The compressor is a high-speed complex machine, and ensuring adequate lubrication of moving parts such as crankshafts, bearings, connecting rods, and pistons is fundamental to maintaining normal operation.
As a veteran driver with over 30 years of experience, I've witnessed numerous compressor failures during my travels. The most common cause of compressor failure is internal component wear, particularly aging seals or insufficient lubrication. If a vehicle frequently operates on long-distance routes or in high-temperature regions, poor refrigerant circulation can accelerate wear. Another major factor is negligent maintenance - failing to replace filters and refrigerants on schedule leads to system blockages from contaminants. My friend's compressor was completely ruined because dust entered and seized the bearings after driving on gravel roads. Another key point is avoiding frequent air conditioning activation during extreme weather conditions, as drastic temperature fluctuations can easily cause overheating. Regularly checking for abnormal AC noises and seeking professional maintenance at authorized shops early can save significant costs. Periodic system lubrication and cleaning are absolutely essential.
