compressor replacement

What does an air conditioning compressor do?

The AC compressor pumps and pressurises the refrigerant through the air conditioning system, feeding cold air into your car. The compressor is powered by your car’s engine.

How often should a compressor need replacing?

A well-maintained and properly serviced compressor could last as long as your car does. However, as with all vehicle components, they’re prone to wear and tear. Leakage and blockage can create irreparable damage.

The law, vehicle regulations and your MOT

A faulty air compressor won’t affect your car’s MOT, but it can affect the comfort of you and your passengers. It’s worth keeping your air conditioning running correctly as the impact it can have on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency could affect the day-to-day cost of your motoring.

What happens when we replace your AC compressor?

Our efficient and fully qualified mechanics will check for possible fault codes relating to your air conditioning that could lead them directly to a compressor fault.

The air conditioning system will be checked thoroughly, including electric and pressure components.

Wherever required your compressor will be replaced, and you’ll be advised of any other connected or associated problems arising from its malfunction. Important associated parts will also be removed and cleaned.

You will be advised of any other parts that may need to be replaced for the best operation and health of your vehicle. This includes replacement of refrigerant and possibly the orifice tube and receiver dryer.

Once the faulty compressor has been replaced, our mechanics will test it thoroughly to ensure the correct running of the new part and make any adjustments required for its premium operation.

What causes an AC compressor to stop working correctly?

Over time, the internal components of a compressor can wear or fail, including the seals that cannot be replaced independently. In other cases, the valves, pistons, bearings or clutch may need replacing, and it could be a cheaper option to replace the complete unit rather than each of the individual parts. Your compressor may have stopped working properly due to infiltration by dirt and debris, or from being affected by other faulty parts in the system.

Symptoms of a malfunctioning AC compressor

Your air con doesn’t work

If the air conditioning in your car doesn’t function as it normally would then it could be down to a faulty compressor.

There is no cool air

If your air vents aren’t producing cool air when your AC is operational, it could be your compressor that’s malfunctioning.

Your fuel consumption isn’t as good as normal

A malfunctioning compressor could also affect your fuel consumption, so if you notice that you’re not achieving your usual mpg, it could be time to have your compressor checked.

Unusual noises in the engine bay

If you hear a ticking noise coming from your engine, then this could be a sign that your compressor is damaged. The AC unit is damp If there are patches of fluid around the AC unit, this could also be a sign of a faulty compressor.