Compressor HVAC: Testing and Inspection

Compressor Noise Check

You must first know the conditions when the noise occurs. These conditions are: weather, vehicle speed, in gear or neutral, engine temperature or any other special conditions.

Noises that develop during A/C operation can often be misleading. For example: what sounds like a failed front bearing or connecting rod, may be caused by loose bolts, nuts, mounting brackets, or a loose clutch assembly. Verify accessory drive belt tension (power steering or generator). Improper accessory drive belt tension can cause a misleading noise when the compressor is engaged and little or no noise when the compressor is disengaged.

Drive belts are speed-sensitive. That is, at different engine speeds, and depending upon belt tension, belts can develop unusual noises that are often mistaken for mechanical problems within the compressor.