Drivers will be able to test their car’s AC compressor by using a multimeter. This simple test can help diagnose any potential issues within a car, ultimately extending the car’s lifespan. Use our step-by-step guide below to accurately test the AC compressor.
How To Test An AC Compressor On A Car
To begin this task, there are a few pieces of equipment needed. Make sure you have a multimeter ready for this process. A multimeter is used to measure various electrical properties, such as current, voltage, and resistance. Both gloves and safety goggles are recommended when working with electrical components.
Follow these five steps to test your car’s AC compressor.
Step 1. Prioritize Safety
- Your safety needs to be priority number one whenever you are working with your car.
- First, turn the engine off and let it cool down for a bit.
- Disconnect the car battery to prevent any accidental electrical shocks.
- Find the battery and disconnect the negative terminal first, then the positive.
- Use insulated tools to prevent accidental short circuits.
- Make sure you always perform this task in a well-ventilated space like a garage with open doors.
- You do not want to be exposed to any harmful fumes emitting from your car.
- Your goggles and gloves should be on, at this time.
Step 2. Locate The AC Compressor
- Reference your owner’s manual to find a diagram featuring the location of the compressor.
- Check near the front of the engine to find this component.
- It is usually driven by the engine’s serpentine belt, located near the front of the engine compartment.
- The compressor looks like a small motor with a pulley.
- Two hoses are connected to the compressor – one for low pressure and one for high pressure.
Step 3. Set Up The Multimeter
- Turn your multimeter to the ohms setting.
- This setting will allow you to measure resistance, which is exactly what you are checking in the compressor.
- Consult the manual of the multimeter for instructions on calibration.
- Use alligator clips for this step, if needed.
- These clips can secure the probes to the compressor’s terminals, freeing your hands to ensure a stable connection.
Step 4. Find The AC Compressor’s Terminals
- Connect the multimeter to the AC compressor’s terminals during this step of the process.
- The terminals are typically found on the side of the compressor.
- Remove any obstructions like covers, shields, or other components.
- Keep track of any screws or parts that you may have removed.
- DO NOT use excessive force that could damage the compressor or nearby components.
Step 5. Test The AC Compressor
- Connect the multimeter’s probes, as one goes to one terminal and the other to the second terminal.
- Make sure the connection remains stable.
- Observe the resistance reading displayed on your multimeter.
- Reference your owner’s manual for the expected resistance range.
- If the reading falls outside the range, the compressor may be faulty.
- Once the test is completed, reattach all previously removed parts in reverse order.
- This will ensure all parts go back to their original, proper place.
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