If you’re lucky, the air conditioning compressor should last the life of your car. However, compressors can fail because of corrosion and normal wear and tear. They can develop leaks or suffer internal damage and squeak, squeal or vibrate excessively. Even a compressor that doesn’t make noise can still pump less cool air than usual if it isn’t fully functional. Air conditioning systems are sealed circuits, and any loss of cooling ability calls for an inspection of the entire system.
Rick Popely
Contributor Rick Popely has covered the auto industry for decades and hosts a weekly online radio show on TalkZone.com.