A/C Groans When Stopping
JustAnotherUser
06-17-2011, 04:15 PM
When I turn off my car, I noticed a groaning rotational sound slowing to a stop anywhere from 1-10 seconds. After some investigation, I discovered the sound occurs when I turn off the AC.
With the A/C on, I've also noticed a medium-pitched occasional 2-3 second light scraping sound from under the hood somewhere when the AC is on. The sound changes with the speed of the engine.
The AC still puts out cold air but just makes those noises.
My best guess is the clutch in the AC compressor is going bad. Do you agree? If so, can mechanics generally replace the clutch or would the entire compressor need to be replaced?
99 Altima. 140,000 miles. no computer codes or warning indicators lit. no other mechanical issues.
With the A/C on, I've also noticed a medium-pitched occasional 2-3 second light scraping sound from under the hood somewhere when the AC is on. The sound changes with the speed of the engine.
The AC still puts out cold air but just makes those noises.
My best guess is the clutch in the AC compressor is going bad. Do you agree? If so, can mechanics generally replace the clutch or would the entire compressor need to be replaced?
99 Altima. 140,000 miles. no computer codes or warning indicators lit. no other mechanical issues.
speediva
06-18-2011, 02:44 PM
I'm inclined to agree with your guess about the A/C compressor clutch, but I will be honest that I've never experienced that problem first-hand so I don't know if it could be fixed independently. You may want to call a few shops to get their opinions and prices now before it finally dies.
Good luck!
Good luck!
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