Can You Replace The Clutch On An AC Compressor?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Can you replace the clutch on an AC ?

Yes, you can technically replace the clutch without removing the compressor

. The reason people suggest doing them together is that when one fails, the other usually isn't too far behind it. It's just a matter of convenience to replace them both since you're already doing most of the same steps anyway.

Should I replace the AC clutch or the whole compressor?


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 , but it's likely to have done some damage to the compressor on its way out.

How much does it cost to replace AC compressor clutch?

The average AC compressor clutch replacement cost is

between $700 and $1000

. Labor costs tend to be about $150 to $250, with the new compressor costing $450 to $850. It's not normally recommended to replace the compressor clutch, but rather, install a whole new compressor.

How do you change a AC compressor clutch?

How long does it take to replace an AC compressor clutch?

The Answer is Seldom a Simple One

It entails removing and disposing of any remaining refrigerant, disconnecting and removing the old compressor, installing the new one with proper fittings, and recharging with refrigerant. Add it all up and it typically takes

four to six hours

.

What causes AC clutch failure?


Dirty coils

The increased pressure and temperature can cause the compressor to overheat and fail. Electrical failure sometimes is unavoidable. This can result in a buildup of acids that cause a great deal of damage to parts in addition to the compressor.

When replacing car AC compressor what else should be replaced?

For the compressor that is seized, you will at the very least need to replace the

compressor assembly and clutch, receiver drier, expansion valve, and flush out the system

. I recommend having a mechanic diagnose your vehicle to see if any other components need replaced in order to fix your air conditioner.

What does a bad AC compressor clutch sound like?

So if you turn on your AC and hear a rattle, it may mean you have a failing or bad: AC compressor. Rattling or your car air conditioner making

loud humming noises which get worse as you accelerate

can both be signs you need to replace your AC compressor.

How do I check my AC compressor clutch?

What should I do if AC compressor clutch is not engaging?


Check the wiring to the clutch

– If wires aren't connected properly this could impact how the compressor is working. Wire need to be connected and in good condition to provide enough power. (In addition the high pressure switch and evaporator temperature sensor could be faulty or have loose wires)

How do you fix a clutch compressor?

Can AC compressor be repaired?


In some situations, technicians can repair your damaged compressor

. However, if your compressor breaks down completely, it's often safer and more cost-effective to replace the part. Many compressors come with a ten-year warranty, allowing for easy replacement.

How do I remove my AC clutch?

Can I replace AC clutch without removing compressor?


Yes, you can technically replace the clutch without removing the compressor

. The reason people suggest doing them together is that when one fails, the other usually isn't too far behind it. It's just a matter of convenience to replace them both since you're already doing most of the same steps anyway.

Is it worth replacing compressor on AC unit in car?

If this is the case, then

yes, a compressor replacement is absolutely worth considering

. But the likelihood of a compressor breaking down entire while still under warranty is fairly slim. So, in the absence of a warranty coverage, it's time to consider a full AC system upgrade.

How long should an AC compressor last in a car?

Compressors generally last the lifetime of a car, or approximately

12 to 15+ years

depending on how well the car is looked after. In saying that, it's important that you regularly check up on and service your car to prevent premature failure. Some ways you can tell if something is failing can include: Leaks.

How do I know if my AC clutch is working?

Can you replace compressor only?


If your compressor is still under warranty, replace only the compressor

. Assuming the compressor is no longer under warranty, we recommend replacing the outside unit if one or more of the circumstances also applies: Money is really short right now and you're not sure it'll be better anytime soon.

Why is AC compressor so expensive?

If you have a large AC unit, then you can expect an expensive AC compressor. That's because

this part is needed to circulate the refrigerant through the entire system

. As more parts are needed for the large unit to run, replacement components will always be more costly.

How do you know if your car AC compressor is bad?

  1. 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. …
  2. Hot Air. The whole point of turning on your vehicle's AC is to get cold air to come through the vents. …
  3. Fluid Leaks. …
  4. Stuck Clutch.

Can you drive with bad AC compressor?


It is most likely OK to operate your vehicle even thought the a/c compressor has failed

. However there are a couple things to be aware of. As long as the compressor pulley is rotating smoothly, without wobble or noise, it shouldn't affect belt tension or operation of the other belt-driven accessories.

What causes AC compressor clutch to lock up?

Car A/C compressors require frequent maintenance. Without professional maintenance, your car's conditioning compressor can seize or lock up. Some of the causes for car air conditioning compressor locking up include

incorrect or low quality refrigerant being used, low coolant levels, and improper lubrication

.

Will AC clutch engage if low on freon?

If the Freon levels are too low,

the clutch will fail to engage

which means there's not enough refrigerant for the compressor to pressurize. In other words, your air conditioning system has nothing to work with!

Why is my AC clutch not spinning?

Several reasons may cause the AC clutch not to stay engaged.

A blown-out fuse, a low-pressure switch lockout, a bad clutch coil, a gap in the wire to the clutch coil, a bad engine coolant temperature switch, or poor ground

.

Can I turn AC clutch by hand?


Yes, you should usually be able to rotate a car's air conditioner compressor clutch by hand

. It won't spin around at the daintiest touch of a finger—you may need to put a modest amount of effort into it—but it should be spinning.

What is the most common cause of compressor failure?


Overheating

is a common cause of compressor failure, and there are many factors at play. If direct sunlight falls on your outdoor unit and there is inadequate ventilation around it, it makes your unit's compressor overheated. High voltages can also damage the motor causing the compressor to overheat.

How long should an AC compressor last?

Your air conditioner compressor should last the whole lifespan of your air conditioner,

about twelve years or more if you choose a ClimateCare air conditioner

. However, it might not last that long if your air conditioner is too small for the space it's cooling, or if you don't keep your air conditioner well-maintained.

How often do AC compressors go bad?

Compressors are actually very dependable (lasting on average

between 12-15 years

) so typically, when your AC compressor has gone bad there's an underlying cause that needs to be addressed lest the problem reemerge even after the unit has been replaced.

Is it worth repairing an air conditioner?

Can a fan clutch cause AC problems?


Absolutely, a bad one can damage your air conditioning system

, as it acts as a heat exchanger for the air conditioning unit. The engine fan keeps the condenser cool which helps to keep the convertible's AC system running smoothly.

Can I replace just AC compressor pulley?


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.

How do I know if my AC compressor bearing is bad?

Why does car AC compressor make noise?

Buzzing Noise

This noise typically comes from the AC compressor and is often a result of

overfilling the system

. Too much coolant in the system can cause damage to your system leading to complicated and expensive repairs. If you hear this one, get it checked out as soon as possible.

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.