When you switch on your car’s air conditioning system, sometimes it fails to turn on. Most of the time, it is because the A/C compressor clutch is not engaged. When this happens, the gasses in the A/C system cease to flow, hindering the cooling process. Here are some of the common reasons for A/C compressor clutch failure:
Burnt Fuse
A blown fuse is one of the primary causes of A/C compressor clutch failure. If the A/C system has an electrical short, excessive electricity might flow through the compressor. This will cause the fuse to burn, causing considerable damage to the expensive A/C components.
Faulty Electrical Connection
The air conditioning system in your car is made up of several electrical wires and connections. If any of these fails, the clutch will cease to function. The most critical connection is the 12 V+ power wire linked to the A/C clutch; if the wire is broken or corroded in any way, the compressor clutch will not engage.
Incorrect Refrigerant Level
To function correctly, the air conditioning system requires the proper amount of refrigerant. It will not work as it should if the A/C system has too much or too little refrigerant. If the A/C unit’s pressure is too low or too high on either the high-pressure side or the low-pressure side, the power provided to the A/C compressor clutch will be cut off and the clutch stops to engage.
Damaged Clutch
Likely, it’s just worn out, just like any other clutch. This is especially common in older vehicles or those with overworked air conditioning systems. The clutch won’t normally wear out while it is brand new. A damaged clutch could also be the result of a failing clutch coil, which would prevent the clutch coil from engaging at all.
Defective Switches
In order to function effectively, modern vehicle A/C systems depend on many switches. These switches have a direct impact on the ground or power delivery to an A/C compressor clutch. The most notable of these switches are evaporator temperature sensors, low-pressure switches, and high-pressure switches. If one of these sensors fails, the clutch will be useless.
How to Fix a Faulty A/C Compressor Clutch?
When the A/C compressor clutch won’t engage, try the following fixes:
- ● Verify refrigerant levels: Use specific gauges to check the refrigerant levels in the system to see whether they are too high or too low. To avoid any mistakes, you can use a DIY repair kit or get the assistance of experts.
- Jump-start the clutch: You shouldn’t attempt this unless you are 100% certain, as a bad move can damage all the expensive parts. To make sure you have the proper wire, consult a wiring diagram.
- Measure A/C clutch voltage: Turn on the engine, switch on the A/C, then unplug the AC clutch connector. When you use a multimeter to check the voltage going to the connection, you can see 12-14 volts flowing to this wire if everything is working as it should.
Examine the fuse:
You must first identify the proper fuse for the system before you can inspect the fuse. Once you’ve located the correct fuse, use your multimeter to test its functionality. You have no choice but to replace the clutch if it has blown.