How are Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Assembly issues diagnosed?
The first thing a technician will test is power going to the compressor clutch. If the clutch will not engage, there may just be a lack of power from the compressor relay, and repairing the circuit may solve the issue. However, modern vehicles may route function of the air conditioning compressor clutch through the body control module or the HVAC electronic control module. In these cases, it is necessary to test the complete circuit, scan the vehicle, and determine if the controller is restricting power to the compressor clutch, or if there is a failure with that circuit. If there is power to the clutch, but the clutch will not engage, the clutch or compressor must be replaced. However, if there is no power to the clutch, yet the clutch will not disengage, the clutch or compressor will be replaced as well.
How are air conditioning compressor clutch assemblies replaced?
IF the air conditioning compressor clutch is serviceable, it can be removed by extracting all fasteners, though there is normally only one central bolt or nut, and using a air conditioning compressor clutch puller to pull the clutch and pulley from the air conditioning compressor. Sometimes this can be accomplished on the vehicle, but others will require evacuation of the air conditioning system, removal of the compressor, and replacement of the receiver drier. In these cases, the air conditioning compressor will likely be replaced as a unit. Once the pulley and compressor clutch are removed, the new assembly can be pressed on, the compressor refitted if necessary, and the air conditioning system vacuum tested, evacuated, and refilled.
RepairPal Recommendations for Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Assembly issues
We recommend avoiding the use of any off-the-shelf air conditioning repair additives, as these additives are only temporary fixes, if they work at all, and can cause damage to air conditioner refrigerant evacuation machines. Also, never attempt to vent refrigerant into the air, as this is harmful to the environment, and can cause chemical burns. If the system is overcharged, you will need the refrigerant to be recovered by a trained and certified technician.