There is nothing as bad as being stuck in a car with no functional air conditioning, especially during summer. If your Volvo’s AC is not blowing cold air or is producing an unusual sound, it could be a compressor issue. Let’s look at some signs and how to address compressor issues so you can stay comfortable and avoid the problem in the future.
Signs of Compressor Failure
- Warm Air from Vents: If your AC is blowing warm air instead of cool, then there is a high possibility that the compressor is not functioning well. This is usually one of the early symptoms that indicate that the compressor is faulty.
- Strange Noises: Any sound that is not normal when the AC system is switched on could be an indication of a faulty compressor. These noises may be caused by the wearing out of the internal parts of the compressor.
- Fluid Leaks: If you feel any refrigerant leaks under your car, then it may be an indication that the compressor is failing. Refrigerant is critical for the AC system and leakage is a sign of a problem that needs to be addressed.
- AC Clutch Not Engaging: The AC clutch is used to engage and disengage the compressor of your Volvo. If the clutch fails, the compressor won’t run and consequently, you will not be able to get cool air. You might also realize that the clutch is not spinning when the AC is switched on.
- Frequent Cycling: If the AC system is turning on and off more often than it should, then the problem may be with the compressor. This can be due to the fact that the system is not able to maintain the right pressure as it should.
Step-by-Step Guide to Addressing Compressor Failure
- Confirm the Problem: Before you take any action, make sure that the problem is with the compressor and not with other parts. This can be done by looking for signs of malfunction. If you are not sure of the root of the problem, then it is advisable that you take your car to a mechanic. They can perform some tests to verify if the problem lies with the compressor.
- Check the Refrigerant Level: If the refrigerant level is low, your Volvo’s compressor can stop working. The refrigerant in the air conditioning system should be checked. If it’s low then you might have a leak. Adding refrigerant will take care of the issue for some time but there will be compressor failure again later in the future if leaks are not repaired.
- Inspect the Compressor Clutch: The compressor clutch is responsible for controlling the operation of the compressor. The clutch is used to engage the compressor and a defective clutch will result in a defective compressor. You can check the clutch by switching on the air conditioning. It is expected that you hear a clicking sound to show that the clutch is on. If you do not hear the click, then the clutch may be the problem.
- Replace the Compressor: If you have been able to establish that the compressor is the issue and it cannot be fixed, then you will have to purchase a new one and install it. This is a task that should be done by a professional because it involves working with refrigerant and also making sure that the new compressor is well-fitted. To replace the compressor, you have to remove and disconnect the old compressor, then the new compressor is connected to the system, and the system is refilled with the refrigerant.
Best Garage For Fixing Volvo Compressor Issues
Since 1969, Dell’s Service Center has been 
the repair shop of choice for owners of luxurious European cars in Green Bay. We are happy to extend our services to the people from Manitowoc and Sturgeon Bay, WI. If you drive a Volvo and you wish to have a comfortable ride irrespective of the weather, it is time to check your A/C or get it fixed.
A compressor is one of the possible parts in your Volvo A/C that can give you a hard time but our technicians are well equipped to deal with this problem. Do not allow a bad compressor to bring your driving experience to a low. Give us a call at 920-494-2860 to fix your Volvo and get that smooth, cool ride regardless of the weather.