Did you know that problems with your air conditioning system could impact how your car operates?
We saw this occur with a Nissan Rogue. The SUV was brought to our shop because it experienced a number of issues all at once.
When the driver was at a stoplight, they heard a crackling noise. Then, lights started coming on the dash and the vehicle cut off.
Why did a Nissan Rogue shut off at a stoplight?
Through diagnostic testing, one of our technicians learned that the air conditioning compressor was locking up, causing the engine to stall.
Why did this happen? Well, sometimes, when something is wrong with one component, it can have a domino effect.
On certain vehicles, the drive belt (also known as a serpentine belt), wraps around and runs the compressor. It also surrounds other parts, such as the alternator and water pump.
A compressor that locks up can create an additional load, which impacts the engine’s ability to operate at idle.
We recommended a new compressor, an air conditioning condenser with a dryer, and an expansion valve. While replacing these components, the technician installed a new belt and tensioners. The a/c lines were flushed, as well.
What is a compressor in a car?
The a/c compressor is one of several items in a car’s air conditioning system. The compressor is responsible for creating pressure.
How do I tell if my car AC compressor is bad?
If you have a bad compressor, the a/c wouldn’t work. You’ll still feel air blowing, but it won’t be cold.
The compressor can either electrically break down or experience an internal mechanical failure.
To confirm that the air conditioning compressor is bad, we test it to see if it’s working. Our technicians would send power and ground to make sure it’s getting power.
A bad compressor won’t turn on and the clutch won’t engage.
How to tell if a compressor is locked up?
When a compressor locks up, you would hear a noise and either the belt breaks or it doesn’t.
A locked up compressor will affect everything else that is on that assembly, such as the water pump and power steering (if the vehicle has hydraulic power steering).
The cooling system can be impacted, too. If it’s bad enough, the vehicle could start to overheat, especially if the belt wasn’t on.
A car’s alternator might also experience problems, resulting in the battery light turning on.
If the belt breaks, drivers may notice a rubber smell.
Can you drive a car with a locked up AC compressor?
You might be able to drive your vehicle if the AC compressor locks up, but it depends on the setup.
For some cars, the compressor is driven by an air conditioning belt. In this case, you just wouldn’t turn on the a/c system. You don’t have to have an AC belt on to drive a car. As long as nothing else is relying on that belt to turn, then it’s fine.
However, if the compressor locks up and it’s driven by the drive belt, eventually it will probably throw the belt.
In the case of the Nissan Rogue, the driver tried to start the vehicle at the light, but it kept stalling. So, there wasn’t any time for the belt to break.
If you believe your a/c compressor has locked up and aren’t sure if it’s driven by an AC belt or drive belt, reach out to an automotive expert.
HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located near Dale City, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.