6 Steps Process To Quiet A Noisy Car AC Compressor: Keep Your Cool And Silence The Noise!

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During hot summer days, it feels better when the smooth and cool air blows from your car’s AC while you go out on a drive. However, it can be really frustrating when your car AC compressor is not working properly and you have to deal with annoying sounds coming from it. 

And these sounds are generally a sign there is something wrong with your AC’s compressor. But, you don’t need to worry about those loud unpleasant sounds anymore. In this article, we have discussed 6 easy steps on how to quiet a noisy car AC compressor and resolve these issues. 

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Is Your Noisy Car AC Compressor Dangerous

Your noisy car AC compressor might not be as dangerous as you are thinking, however, still the loud noises coming from the compressor can be really annoying and it might indicate a basic problem.  

Generally, it is not a risk for you or other people, if it is properly maintained and every possible issue is addressed. But, if you don’t address or maintain your noisy car AC compressor for some time, then some problems can happen.  

That is why you should know when you need to address any noise that your AC compressor is making to prevent potential safety issues. 

And in the case of a noisy car AC compressor, there are some indications that you should look for, such as strange smells coming out from inside your car, constant rattling noises, and visible changes in the cooling performance of your AC system.  

If you have noticed any of these warning signs, then you should immediately call a trained professional to inspect your AC system. Because if you want to repair your noisy car AC compressor, then the best option is to let a professional handle it. They would know how to resolve any underlying issues.  

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How To Quiet A Noisy Car AC Compressor: 6 Steps To Soundproof Your Ride

To quiet your noisy car AC compressor, you have to determine the type of sound coming out from the compressor. Here we have explained 6 simple steps on how to quiet a noisy car AC compressor so that you can enjoy a peaceful ride. 

1. Quiet Squeaking Noises

If you are experiencing a loud squeaking noise from under the hood of your car, it can be really annoying to drive around with that type of unpleasant loud noise. 

And there are some ways to fix the source of the noise before anything serious damage happens to your car. If you could know the reasons for the noise, then it will give you a clear idea of the source of the problem.

Misalignment Within The Pulleys

There are several pulleys that the belt drives, so these are rotated by the belt. And even a slight misalignment within the pulleys can cause a squeaking noise. 

So, if you want to check to find out whether it is a pulley misalignment causing the unpleasant sound, then you have to closely monitor the serpentine belt through all the pulleys.

And you should check for the indications of side-to-side movement of the belt. If you observe that the belt moves this way, then you would probably need to have a mechanic who can properly align the pulleys to resolve the issue.

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Worn-out Bearings

Also, all the pulleys have bearings that actually help them to rotate. So, if there is any issue with any of the bearings, or if they are worn out, then it can cause a squeaking noise. However, there is a way for you to confirm the source of the noise. 

First, you need to take a spray bottle filled with water. Then, just spray some water onto the rib side of the belt when the engine is in running condition. However, you must be very careful of the running fan, because it can seriously injure you.

After that, if the noise stops when you spray the belt with water, then it indicates that the problem is actually with the belt, not with any pulley bearings. Because, if any of the pulley bearings was making that sound, then it would continue even after you spray the water onto the belt. 

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Worn-out Belt

So, you can hear a squeaking noise if your belt is worn-out. And you can repeat the same method used above to determine if the belt causing the noise. You just need to spray the rib side of the belt with water and if the noise stops, then it is a clear indication that your belt needs replacement. 

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2. Fix A Knocking/ Clicking Noise

It can be one of the easiest issues to fix on your own. A knocking sound generally indicates that there is probably something loose under the hood. Also, you can identify the source of the sound by starting the engine and turning the AC on. 

If you are hearing the noise only when your AC is turned on, then it is a sign that the compressor mounting might be loose. To fix this issue, just pick the right-sized wrench and then tighten the bolts around the compressor. 

And another common reason for the knocking/clicking noise from a car’s AC compressor is the loose or worn-out fan belt. Because the fan belt actually connects the compressor to the engine and drives it.

That is why when the belt is not tight enough, it can cause vibration and sometimes also a knocking sound. To fix this issue, you should make sure that the fan belt is properly tightened and adjusted. Also, you can replace it if required. 

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3. Quiet Grinding Noise

If you are experiencing a grinding noise from your car engine, then first you should turn off the engine and check your belt for any signs of debris. When you have solved that issue, then you should take the belt off to check all the pulleys safely to find out if they are actually making the noise. 

And you can do this by jiggling and spinning the pulleys to check for any signs of unnecessary noises. When you have identified the pulley that is making the noise, which generally is the compressor, then you can think about the solution. 

The solution is that you need to replace the AC compressor. However, before doing so, you should remember that you also need to make sure that there are not any contaminants inside the AC system. 

Because there are filters inside the AC system to remove any debris or contaminants. So, the system would heat up if there is too much debris inside the system. And for that reason, your new compressor will wear out faster than usual. 

Depending on the model of your car, some specific tools can be used to clear those contaminants and debris from your AC system. However, you can also take your car to a good mechanic who can do this job for you.  

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4. Fixing A Buzzing Noise

One of the most common reasons for a buzzing sound from your engine is that your AC compressor has excess refrigerant. And you will hear this sound once you turn on the car AC. If the problem is not fixed as soon as possible, it can even damage the compressor. 

It requires you to remove the excess refrigerant from the AC system. A mechanic can do this job pretty easily. However, if you think that you can handle this task on your own, then you can watch some tutorial videos on how to do this. 

Also, a buzzing sound could mean that your refrigerant might leak through the pipes. And if you are facing this issue, then you might experience low cooling in your car while you turn on the AC. 

You should check the pipeline around your engine to find out if any hoses are covered in oil. Because any pipe covered in oil is where the leak actually exists. And if the leaking issue continues, then you can take the help of a mechanic who can check the cooling system to find the problem.

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5. Quiet Rattling Noise

This rattling sound generally indicates that there are loose parts within the compressor, for example, broken belts or screws that vibrate inside the cooling system. And constant rattling noise is a clear indicator that your AC compressor can get damaged. 

To resolve this issue, you would first need to remove the AC compressor and check if there are any faulty parts. Then, you should replace them with new fixed parts or you might have to replace the complete unit if it has reached beyond repair.

Broken Belts

In most cases, your AC compressor rattling noise is caused by a broken belt. A broken belt is a component in the cooling system that has become worn or cracked due to time or excessive use.

To fix this problem, you should open up the compressor unit and inspect all the parts. And if you have found any broken or worn-down belts, then you should replace them with new components and tighten them accordingly. You might also need to add lubrication to those affected areas if you want to reduce friction and noise. 

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Worn-down Screws

Screws can generally become loose or out of place over time due to excessive use or vibration. If you want to fix this problem, then you would need to inspect all the screws and make sure that they are tightly fastened. If not, you should tighten them using a screwdriver.

And if required, you might also need to replace any worn-down screws with new ones. Also, you can apply thread-locking adhesive to each screw hole to prevent loosening and leakage over time. You can even have a mechanic to check out the complete cooling system to properly diagnose the problem. 

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6. Quiet A Hissing Sound

The hissing sound generally indicates a refrigerant leak within the compressor and it can cause damage to the AC compressor. And the most common reason for a refrigerant leak is usually a small crack in the compressor housing. 

If you don’t resolve this issue, the leak can also cause major problems, since refrigerant leaks can be hazardous to even breathe in. And we would recommend you to take the help of professionals who can handle these types of leaks. 

Because they would have the necessary tools and know the correct procedure to get the job done properly. To fix this issue, you would first need to find out the exact source of the leak. Then you can use a special sealant to fix such leaks and then refill the refrigerant.

Also, you may use a refrigerant leak detector to identify the source of the leak properly. When you have fixed the leak, you should charge the system with refrigerant and check if it is running properly. 

However, if you hear a loud and continuous hissing sound, then there might be something serious with your compressor. So, in that case, you should call a mechanic as soon as possible.

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Maintaining A Noisy Car AC Compressor

According to the report of MotorTrend, now over 99 percent of all new cars are air-conditioned. However, you should know how to maintain a car AC compressor. 

• You should always try to keep the compressor clean and debris-free because dirt and debris can reduce its efficiency and cause noise.
• If you have noticed any damaged or faulty parts, try to repair or replace them as soon as possible.
• Try to inspect all mounting points of your AC unit at least once a month to check for signs of wear and tear. 

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Wrap Up On How To Quiet A Noisy Car AC Compressor: Say Goodbye To Noise

There are many possible reasons for your noisy car AC compressors, and some issues are easier to address than others. Some common reasons are worn-out fan belts and leaking refrigerant, which can easily be addressed by simple maintenance and repair works.

And when you notice any unusual sounds from your car AC compressor, you should always take it seriously. You should consider talking to a trusted mechanic to solve your particular problem. 

We hope that our informative article has helped you to learn how to quiet a noisy car AC compressor to soundproof your ride. If you have any questions regarding the above-mentioned methods, please let us know in the comments below. 

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FAQ: How To Quiet A Noisy Car AC Compressor

As a lot of people don’t know what is causing the noise from their car’s AC compressor, they are trying to learn how to quiet a noisy car AC compressor. Here we have given appropriate answers to some related questions on this topic.