AC Compressor Troubleshooting

[Sam.F.Sch]

Hey all, new to the forum and looking to find some help for my 2005 Buick Lesabre. Here is the issue I am having: My AC compressor is making a loud clicking noise but it goes away as soon as the AC is turned off. Since finding this issue I removed the AC compressor clutch relay from the fuse box to prevent the AC from accidentally being turned on. I have also noticed that when driving the car it will lose some power when the AC is turned on. Almost as if the compressor is drawing power from the engine as it is running. However, when the engine is turned off the compressor clutch spins freely by hand with no noticeable drag.

Vehicle has 141,500 miles and runs like a champ when the AC compressor is not running but I would like to know if this is the AC compressor itself or just the clutch. The compressor itself works and the AC system blows freezing cold air but I would like to pinpoint how bad the issue is before taking it to have the compressor replaced.

Thanks for any advice!

 

[HotZ28]

With that many miles (141,500) the compressor replacement kit should be installed. If the clutch is failing, the compressor is not far behind! Do it the right the way & forget about it!

 

[Ultra Ego]

A word of caution. Yes, the compressor and clutch should both be replaced, but as we have learned together, here in this forum, it is best to replace all of the other key components as well so that the new compressor is not damaged by any debris in the system.

Search the LeSabre thread for AC conversations. You will understand quickly the system is straightforward and easy to work on.

 

[JGBuick]

Take it from me...(I went through this last year and posted a few threads...) Contamination of the system requires the "WHOLE" system to be cleaned and the condenser to replaced, lines flushed, Orifice tubes etc... The list goes on.... IF you have caught the problem early, then just replace the compressor with a new one, Have it evacuated and then then go from there. A KNOWLEDGEABLE mechanic/shop is going to be your best asset here.

If you do this yourself, (Like I did) there's quite a learning curve if you don't understand the A/C system.

 

[Spinall]

the compressor and clutch should both be replaced