Woodlands:

6495 College Park Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77384
936-271-1110

Chill Out! Here's How to Tell If a Car AC Compressor is Bad

How to tell if your car AC compressor is bad. Closeup image of leak testing gauge of a car air conditioner.

If you live in The Woodlands, TX, chances are you already have first-hand experience of how blistering hot summers can be. Temperatures averages around 94 degrees from July to August. 

If your vehicle has been sitting in the sun for a long time, it can quickly climb to a staggering 138 degrees. If your car’s air conditioning isn’t functioning properly, it must be repaired ASAP.

Fortunately, auto AC systems don’t break down very often. But when they do, the AC compressor is often to blame. That makes it an excellent idea for car owners to know the symptoms and other warning signs of a weak compressor. 

We created a quick guide to the symptoms of a failing car AC compressor. If you need a car AC repair, don’t hesitate to reach out to Repair One in The Woodlands, TX.

Strange Sounds When Turning On the AC

Your car AC compressor doesn’t run for the entire time you use the air conditioner. But it will come on right away when you first turn on the system. 

When you do, listen for any odd sounds coming from under your car’s hood. If you hear any, it could indicate that the compressor is having trouble or a dwindling compressor lifespan.

Lack of Cold Air Coming From the Vents

The AC compressor ensures the system’s refrigerant gets cold enough to produce cold air. If you’re experiencing reduced cold air coming from your vents, it may be due to a weak compressor. If you’re not getting any cold air at all, it could indicate that the compressor has already failed.

A Stuck Compressor Clutch

In modern cars, air conditioning compressors rely on an accessory belt to power them. But since they don’t run full-time, they also feature a clutch that engages when it’s time for the compressor to turn on. 

Although the average lifespan of a car AC compressor is between 10 and 12 years, the compressor clutch could fail earlier than that. Unfortunately, a failed clutch means you need a whole new compressor—they’re inseparable.

Reduced Compressor Lifespan Due to Leaking Refrigerant

Since your car’s AC compressor handles refrigerant, one of the obvious signs it’s going bad is if you notice any leaks. Even if it doesn’t, an AC system that needs frequent recharges could also signify a failing compressor. Either way, you’ll need repair services to correct the AC problem.

Contact Repair One for Car AC Repair in The Woodlands, TX 

If you notice any of the signs above that point toward an AC compressor problem, don’t wait. Make an appointment to bring your car to Repair One in The Woodlands, TX. 

As the leading car AC repair facility in the area, we offer an array of fast and affordable auto repair solutions. Our experienced mechanic will quickly diagnose the problem and offer you the necessary solution.

Call us at (936) 271-1110 or fill out this form. You can also drop by our auto shop at 6495 College Park Dr in The Woodlands, TX.

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