Top 4 Reasons for Rattling Noises When Car’s AC Is On
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The car's air conditioning system is designed to keep you comfortable and relaxed when the temperature rises.
It's quiet and unobtrusive, so it should not make any noise, but if you hear a buzzing sound when it's turned on, it could be a sign that something is wrong with the system.
Although it's technically a separate part of the car, your air conditioning system is tied to the engine's serpentine belt. This component turns the AC compressor's pulley and pressures the refrigerant lines.
Let’s discuss possible causes of rattling noise when AC is on in a car.
Table of Contents
- Why Your Car Makes Rattling Noise When AC Is On Video
- Rattling Noise When AC Is on in the Car
- How To Know When Your Car AC Compressor Has Gone Bad
- What Does the AC Compressor Do?
- How Much Does It Cost To Replace an Air Conditioner in a Car?
- How Long Will a Noisy AC Compressor Last?
- Is It Worth Replacing an AC Compressor?
- Why Does My AC Sound Like a Motor?
- How Long Should a Car AC Compressor Last?
- Best Car Deals by Category
Why Your Car Makes Rattling Noise When AC Is On Video
Rattling Noise When AC Is on in the Car
If you're experiencing this issue, you should contact a professional for assistance. In this article, we'll highlight some useful information about the possible causes of rattling noise when the AC is on in a car.
These are some of the reasons why there is a rattling noise when the AC is on in the vehicle:
1. Failing AC Compressor
If your car's AC is making a loud clicking noise when it's turned on, it could result in the compressor failing.
The compressor is an essential component of the car's air conditioning system and is responsible for circulating the air and keeping it cool.
It's essential to replace the compressor as soon as possible if it's failing, as it can lead to the complete failure of the car's air conditioning system.
A replacement can be expensive, but it's worth having the car's AC working properly.
2. Dirty AC Condenser
The car's AC condenser is the part of the system responsible for cooling the air that circulates through it.
Unfortunately, it can become dirty over time, preventing it from properly cooling the air.
Getting the car's condenser cleaned is generally a relatively straightforward process, but it's essential to ensure it's done correctly.
If you think that your car's condenser might be dirty, it must be fixed by a professional. Doing so can prevent it from causing further problems.
3. Loose Parts
Loose parts are one of the most common causes of rattling noise when AC is on in a car.
Over time, these can become loose, which can cause the components of the car's AC system to become noisy.
In most cases, this can be fixed by loosening the brackets and bolt. However, a new set of parts might be required in some cases.
If you cannot figure out how to properly tighten the brackets and bolt on your car's AC, you must take it to a professional. They'll be able to diagnose the issue and make necessary repairs.
4. Worn Out AC Pulley
One of the most common causes of this issue is the worn-out pulley of the AC compressor.
Over time, this can cause it to become unstable and cause the compressor to make a clicking sound. In most cases, this can be fixed by replacing the entire pulley.
If your car's AC is making a clicking sound, it must be fixed as soon as possible. There are a variety of possible causes of this issue, some of which can be very serious.
Having your car's AC system checked can help you avoid costly repairs later.
How To Know When Your Car AC Compressor Has Gone Bad
Getting the proper diagnosis and replacement of your car's AC compressor is relatively easy. Having these signs can help you avoid costly repairs later on.
Some of these symptoms of a bad AC compressor will appear when it's not working correctly. The symptoms of a bad AC compressor in a car include the following;
1. High Cabin Temperature
One of the first signs that your car's AC is failing is when the dashboard's air conditioning vent is no longer supplying cold air to the vehicle.
This is because the compressor is not working correctly. As a result, warm air coming through the vents will affect the air-con system.
When the car's AC compressor fails, you'll notice a lot of hot air inside the vehicle.
There are three possible reasons for this: a leak in the AC compressor, a low-efficiency AC compressor, or both.
2. Loud Noise Coming from the AC Compressor
The clicking noise your car's AC system produces is usually caused by the compressor switching On and Off.
If you notice a loud noise when the compressor is engaged, this could be a sign that your clutch is defective.
The clutch is a component of the car's AC system that controls the belt that connects the compressor to the engine. If it fails, it can cause noise.
The car's AC compressor's interior components are made of various materials.
If the internal bearing gets damaged or seized, it can cause the compressor to produce loud noises.
If you suspect the clutch is defective, you can try replacing the entire component.
3. Moisture Leak
Most people who ask about using a bad AC compressor don't realize how moisture can affect it.
The air conditioning system uses a chemical known as the air conditioning refrigerant to cool down the warm air inside the vehicle.
If the system cannot use the correct amount of this chemical, it will only produce warm air.
As a result, a leaking AC compressor can lead to higher energy consumption and harmful health effects.
4. Stiff Compressor Clutches
The car's compressor clutch is a component that allows the compressor to disengage from the engine's power while still engaging the belt.
If the clutch fails, it can prevent the compressor from receiving engine power.
The good news is that the clutch is a separate unit and can be replaced after the diagnosis.
Since it's a separate component, you can save money by replacing it instead of the entire compressor unit.
5. Tripping Circuit Breaker
If the outside condensing unit of your car continues to trip the circuit, it could be a sign that the car's AC compressor is failing.
This issue is caused by the excessive power being drawn by the compressor, which is causing it to overheat.
If you notice that the circuit breaker is tripped, do not try to reset it and continue powering on the system.
6. Broken Suction Lines
If your car's air vent is getting hot because of the blocked refrigerant lines, it could be a sign that the car's AC compressor is failing.
You can try removing the lines yourself or contact an HVAC expert for assistance.
What Does the AC Compressor Do?
Since the invention of the car ac compressor in the early days of the automotive industry, driving has become a pleasurable experience.
As technology advances, car production becomes more accessible, and as a result, more affordable vehicles are being sold.
One of the most common inventions in the industry is the invention of the car's AC system.
The car's AC system relies on the compressor to cool the air before it's sent to the condenser, turning the chemical into a liquid state. Without this component, the air-conditioning system will not work correctly.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace an Air Conditioner in a Car?
Depending on the make and model of the car, the cost of fixing or replacing an air conditioning system can vary significantly.
For instance, minor repairs such as re-filling the missing refrigerant can cost around $200 to $700.
On the other hand, significant repairs, such as replacing the entire compressor or the condenser, can cost thousands of dollars.
The cost of replacing an air conditioning system can vary depending on the make and model of the car, your location, and the garage where you will be taking it.
For instance, a mechanic might charge around $150 for replacing the compressor, while another one might charge about $400.
How Long Will a Noisy AC Compressor Last?
Although an AC compressor can last for a couple of years in a car, it eventually needs to be replaced due to its noise.
You must contact a mechanic or an AC specialist if you notice it's making a loud noise.
Is It Worth Replacing an AC Compressor?
The cost of replacing an AC compressor is typically higher than an outdoor unit.
However, since most dead compressors are usually found in older air conditioners, replacing them with a new one is more cost-effective.
Why Does My AC Sound Like a Motor?
Several reasons your car's AC might be making a loud noise. One of these could be the failure of the compressor.
Other possible causes include dirty or loose components in the system or the car's condenser. If unsure what's causing the noise, you must take your vehicle to a mechanic.
How Long Should a Car AC Compressor Last?
Since your car is running optimally and you have a good driving experience, you probably don't care about the various components of the system inside the engine compartment.
However, since many components make up the car's AC system, it's hard to predict how long the compressor will last.
Generally speaking, the car's age and use will determine how long the compressor can last. On average, the AC compressor can last up to twelve years.
