Common vehicle A/C compressor failures, their symptoms, preventive tips and the MS111, MS101P and MS121 equipment used by workshops.
The compressor is the heart of the climate system. Signs of trouble include unusual noises, oil leaks and loss of cooling. Problems highlighted in the article:
- Loss of housing tightness, letting in moisture and dirt and leaking refrigerant
- Wear or damage to the compressor drive belt
- Pipeline damage from corrosion or poor repairs, with dirt clogging the condenser
- High-pressure sensor failure due to poor contacts, and degraded seals
Preventive advice includes checking the compressor when buying a used car, running the A/C for 10–15 minutes weekly even when rarely used (not below 5 °C), and switching it off a few minutes before the end of a trip. Professional workshops use the MS111 compressor bench, MS101P flushing station and MS121 tester.