Top 3 Reasons Your AC Compressor Failed | Pretoria | AC Aircon Repairs
The AC compressor is often called the heart of your vehicle's air conditioning system because it pumps the refrigerant (gas) through the loop. It’s also usually the single most expensive component to replace. In Pretoria, the harsh operating conditions put the compressor under immense stress. Knowing the common reasons for failure is key to preventing a costly breakdown.
Reason 1: Lack of Lubrication (Low Oil/Refrigerant)
This is, by far, the most common killer of car AC compressors. The oil that lubricates the moving parts of the compressor circulates with the refrigerant gas. If you have a leak in your system (which all cars develop over time), you are slowly losing both refrigerant and oil.
"When the oil level drops, metal-on-metal grinding occurs inside the compressor. This causes catastrophic failure, often leading to replacement rather than repair."
Prevention Tip:
Never delay a regas or leak check. If you notice a drop in cooling performance, book a Diagnostics & Leak Detection service immediately. We ensure the system is recharged with the correct type and amount of oil during the regas process, protecting your compressor.
Reason 2: System Contamination and Moisture
When a leak occurs, it doesn't just let gas out; it lets moisture (water vapour) in. This moisture reacts with the refrigerant and oil to form corrosive acids, which degrade the internal components of the AC system, starting with the compressor.
Furthermore, if a compressor suffers a catastrophic failure, metal debris (shavings) circulate throughout the entire system. If the system isn't thoroughly cleaned (flushed) and the Receiver Drier replaced, the new compressor will ingest this debris and quickly fail again. This is why a simple compressor swap is never enough.
Prevention Tip:
Always replace the Receiver Drier/Accumulator when the system has been opened for major repair, especially after a compressor failure. Our specialist service includes a deep system flush to remove contaminants before installing any new parts.
Reason 3: Electrical Failure (Clutch or Wiring)
The compressor clutch is an electromagnet that engages the compressor when you turn on the AC. This clutch can fail due to excessive heat (often caused by constant cycling from low refrigerant) or high resistance in the wiring or relays.
A clutch failure often presents as the AC suddenly blowing warm air, even though the system may still have gas. This requires a precise Electrical System Check to isolate the fault. Sometimes only the clutch needs replacing, not the entire compressor.
Prevention Tip:
Ensure you have a professional Performance Test done annually. We check clutch amperage and system pressures to identify electrical weaknesses before they lead to total clutch burnout. If caught early, a clutch repair is far cheaper than a full compressor replacement.
Need a Compressor Repair or Replacement in Pretoria?
The cost of a compressor replacement can be significant, so choosing the right specialist is vital. At AC Aircon Repairs in Wonderboom South, we guarantee a permanent repair. We diagnose why the compressor failed, replace the necessary parts (compressor, drier/accumulator, expansion valve), and perform a full system flush and regas. Contact our Pretoria workshop today for an honest, transparent quote.
