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Car surges when air conditioning is on Inspection Service

For most of us, turning on the AC on a hot summer day is a relief. Cooled air fills the cabin and you’re able to relax and drive comfortably. However, if your car surges with the AC on, then there’s definitely a problem that needs to be hunted down and repaired.

How this system works:

First, understand that this problem isn’t tied to just one system – it’s a combination of different things. When your AC turns on, it puts a load on the engine (the engine is responsible for turning the compressor, which builds pressure in the system, which allows low-pressure, gaseous refrigerant to be turned into high-pressure liquid and used in your cooling system.

When the engine is put under a load by the AC system, the car’s computer automatically attempts to compensate for that by adjusting the idle. If there is carbon buildup within any part of the system, including the idle air control valve, throttle body, or possibly even the EGR valve, it can cause surging. The car’s computer essentially miscalculates the amount of power necessary, and ends up overshooting, leading to a surging engine.

Any problem with the AC system can also exacerbate this condition. For instance, if the system is low on refrigerant, the compressor will kick on more often, causing the surging to increase in frequency (if not in intensity).

Common reasons for this to happen:

Carbon Buildup: A number of engine components are subject to carbon buildup over time, and this can place a significant load on the engine. When the additional load of your AC compressor is added, it causes the computer to miscalculate and increase idle speed too much. Common sources of carbon buildup include the IAC valve, the EGR valve, and the throttle body.

  • Low Refrigerant in the AC System: If your AC system is low on refrigerant, it will make the compressor cycle on more frequently, increasing the load on your engine.

  • Failing AC Compressor: If your AC compressor is beginning to fail, this can also add to the surging problem.

  • Bad Belt: One often overlooked cause of a car surging with the AC on is actually a worn compressor belt. If the belt is stretched or worn smooth, it can slip during operation. This places significant strain on the engine and the AC system. Replacing the belt often eliminates the surge, and ensures better AC operation.

  • Bad AC Cycling Switch: The AC cycling switch controls the compressor cycling pattern. Over time, it can go bad. When this happens, it will place a significant load on the engine and can lead to surging.

  • Overfilled AC System: While low refrigerant can cause problems with your AC and engine surging, an overfilled system can cause the same problem. Refrigerant must be “just right” or you will experience a number of different problems.

What to expect:

Our professional mobile mechanic will come to your home or office to inspect the engine and the air conditioning system. The mechanic will then provide a detailed inspection report that includes the scope and cost of the necessary repairs.

How it's done:

The mechanic will inspect the AC system, as well as the vehicle’s engine. A test drive may be necessary if the surging only occurs when the car is in drive. The mechanic will check the car’s refrigerant level, as well as other possible causes, such as the AC cycling switch.

How important is this service?

If your engine is surging while the AC is on, it’s a sign that there’s something wrong. Driving without the air conditioner might solve it at least temporarily, but this is only a short-term fix. The actual problem must be addressed. One of our professional mechanics can inspect and diagnose your problem, and then provide a repair that ensures your engine runs smoothly and that your AC system works correctly.


Recent Car surges when air conditioning is on Inspection reviews

Excellent Rating

(14)

Rating Summary
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James

42 years of experience
117 reviews
James
42 years of experience
Infiniti G35 V6-3.5L - Car surges when air conditioning is on - Stow, Ohio
Jim arrived on time and provided a courtious service. He carefully listened to the description of symtoms, thoroughly diagnosed the problem and recommended a service with a logical explanation. He also volunteered to provide many useful tips in maintaining a vehicle in an easy to understand manner. Jim is an experienced and friendly mechanic who wants to sincerely help you to drive a safe and trouble-free vehicle. I would highly recommend Jim for auto service needs.

Diego

22 years of experience
564 reviews
Diego
22 years of experience
Chevrolet Cruze L4-1.8L - Car surges when air conditioning is on Inspection - Phoenix, Arizona
Came on time found out exactly what the problem was and didn't even take him an hour but then again I don't know if he checked everything I had read he was gonna check. Just happy I can get it fixed now

James

9 years of experience
128 reviews
James
9 years of experience
BMW 528i L6-3.0L - Car surges when air conditioning is on - Atlanta, Georgia
James was awesome. He has a great personality and was very thorough. He gave me preventive tips as well

Brian

24 years of experience
818 reviews
Brian
24 years of experience
Nissan Xterra V6-4.0L - Car surges when air conditioning is on - Jacksonville, Florida
Brian was very helpful and had a very pleasant and professional demeanor. He made me very comfortable asking question and gave very clear ezplanations.

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