How Much Does It Cost To Replace AC Compressor Clutch?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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AC Clutch Cost – RepairPal Estimate.

Labor costs are estimated between $179 and $225

while parts are priced between $388 and $392. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

Can you replace just the clutch on an AC compressor?


Yes you can just replace the clutch pulley on the a/c compressor

. The issue that you may have is the pulley bearing seized up and may have spun on the front of the compressor nose cone and will damage it. You may need to replace compressor.

Can you replace the clutch on an AC compressor?

The AC compressor clutch is a small part of your AC system, but it can cost a lot of money to replace it. On average, you're going to have to pay somewhere

between $600 and $670

to replace your AC compressor clutch.

Should I replace the AC compressor or just the clutch?

The primary reason to replace an entire A/C compressor and

clutch

assembly is for better long-term reliability. The AC clutch pulley might be what needs replacement, but it's likely to have done some damage to the compressor on its way out.

How do I know if my AC compressor or clutch is bad?

  1. The pulley that's attached to your AC compressor may freeze and make a squealing sound when you turn your AC system on.
  2. Your AC compressor clutch may struggle to engage your AC system's compressor when your AC system is turned on.

What causes AC compressor clutch failure?

Clutch failure is usually caused by

high pressure or voltage issues, or a combination of both

. … With a wrong charge the pressure switches will cause the compressor to constantly engage and disengage. If there is not enough charge the compressor will overheat due to a lack of oil circulating.

What does a bad AC compressor clutch sound like?


Squealing noise

: A loose, dry, or worn A/C compressor belt will cause squealing noise. This noise will be worse during acceleration. Rattling noise: A loose or worn clutch hub or loose compressor mountings bolt will also cause rattling noise from the compressor.

Is it worth replacing compressor on AC unit in car?

But generally speaking, most mechanics

will usually recommend that car owners replace their AC compressors entirely as opposed to trying to repair them

. They suggest that they do this because, oftentimes, bad AC compressors have bad seals in them that cannot be fixed no matter how hard a mechanic tries.

Can I drive with a bad AC clutch?

Your AC pulley is a free spinning pulley that has a clutch on it. It will spin freely until you turn the air conditioning on. If the clutch doesn't work

properly

, you will still be able to drive your car.

What causes AC clutch to slip?

A slipping AC compressor clutch is a sign

of severe wear, shorted clutch coil or an incorrect air gap

(explained later). … The AC compressor drive belt rotates the compressor pulley at all times when the engine is running.

What are the symptoms of a bad auto AC compressor?

  • Odd Sounds. You might hear some strange noises when you flip on your vehicle's air conditioner and if you do, it's probably the compressor. …
  • Hot Air. The whole point of turning on your vehicle's AC is to get cold air to come through the vents. …
  • Fluid Leaks. …
  • Stuck Clutch.

How do you check a AC compressor clutch?

  1. The pulley that's attached to your AC compressor may freeze and make a squealing sound when you turn your AC system on.
  2. Your AC compressor clutch may struggle to engage your AC system's compressor when your AC system is turned on.

Does a AC compressor come with a clutch?

But what people don't always realize is that your car's AC compressor wouldn't be able to do its job without an AC compressor clutch. This clutch

is every bit

as important as the compressor itself. Learn more about what an AC compressor is and what you'll need to do to replace it when the time comes.

What happens when the AC clutch goes out?

The

clutch can seize

, which permanently keeps the compressor activated; or it can break, which means the compressor will not be able to receive engine power. Sometimes the clutch itself can be replaced, but usually replacing the entire compressor turns out to be the most efficient repair.

How can you tell if you need a new AC compressor?

  1. Your AC Is Making Growling, Screeching, or Clattering Noises. Electrical failures in the compressor will make your AC emit unusual clunking or rattling noises. …
  2. You Have a Hard Time Getting Your AC to Start. …
  3. Your AC Stops Blowing Cold Air. …
  4. Circuit Breaker Problems. …
  5. Diminished Airflow.

Should AC clutch spin freely?

Most AC clutches are

designed to spin freely when disengaged

, and also with the pulley and compressor when those are engaged. If the clutch spins freely at all times, and the compressor never comes on, then it may not be engaging and therefore needs to be replaced.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.