Updated at: 19-04-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

When it comes to replacing a car’s air conditioner clutch, you should know as much as possible. This clutch is made up of two circular iron friction plates, one coupled to the engine and one attached to the air conditioner’s rotor with a drive belt so that it spins as long as you’re driving. In close proximity to the two friction plates is an electromagnet that, when activated, creates a magnetic field that attracts and repels the plates. While they are squeezed together, the engine plate can turn the air conditioner plate, which turns the air conditioner on. Changing your car’s AC clutch couldn’t be easier than following these simple step-by-step instructions.

Signs That An Air Conditioner Clutch Is Bad

The clutch of an air conditioner is capable of lasting a long time. It won’t be exhausting the first time you get behind the wheel. However, if it fails, no one will know for sure. When something is amiss, you need to look out for the telltale symptoms. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s likely that your clutch needs to be replaced. Otherwise, you may have to cope with something far more catastrophic. Here are some warning indicators to keep an eye out for.

Sign #1. Squealing sound

When you turn on your air conditioning system, the compressor pulley attached to it may freeze, resulting in a squeaking noise.

Sign #2. Engine light

As soon as you start having problems with your air conditioner clutch, the engine light on your automobile will most likely come on. When the clutch jams, it’s possible that the compressor will kick on but not shut off. That’s only one symptom of a problem with your clutch. If your air conditioner clutch fails, a slew of other issues can arise.

Sign #3. Lack of pressure

A loss of pressure will affect the entire air conditioning system. When you switch on the AC, the clutch will also have a hard time engaging the compressor.

Steps To Replace Air Conditioner Clutch

Step 1: Buy a New Compressor

In order to replace an air conditioning system’s electronic clutch, a new air compressor is required. Purchase a new air compressor if the one you currently have isn’t compatible with your vehicle.

Step 2: Get Access to the Compressor

Before you begin working on the car, open the hood and let the engine to cool down fully. Remove the battery’s negative and positive cables, starting with the black one. Locate the air compressor, which contains the clutch.

Step 3: Remove R134-a From the System

Before the hoses can be unhooked, the air conditioner’s R134-a, which is chemically similar to Freon, must be removed. To remove it safely, you’ll need a refrigerant recovery equipment because it’s flammable and toxic if handled or inhaled. If you don’t have access to one of these machines, you can have the R134-a removed by an air conditioning mechanic.

Step 4: Remove Air Compressor

Disconnect the air conditioning and heating hoses, as well as the wire leading to the electromagnet in the AC clutch. Remove the air filter. Remove any additional constraints that keep the air compressor in place. Remove the compressor and look for any damage.

Step 5: Install the New Clutch

Ensure that the friction plates on the new compressor are properly spaced and place it in the same spot as the previous one. The old compressor’s hoses and wires should be reconnected in the same manner as they were before. Check that the new clutch is working properly by reconnecting the vehicle’s battery and starting the engine. The fan behind the grate should be blowing and the friction plates should be forced together and spinning when you switch on the A/C. Since replacing your air conditioner clutch yourself can save you money over hiring a professional, it makes sense to do it yourself instead of paying for the service. Having a worn AC clutch can have a significant impact on the life and efficiency of your car’s air conditioning system.

It’s A Wrap!

Keep in mind that if the AC clutch is already worn out, it is critical to replace it because it substantially impacts the air conditioning system’s efficiency. Fortunately, replacing an air conditioner’s clutch isn’t that difficult. Doing it yourself will save you money that you would otherwise have to spend on hiring a professional to do it for you.