Q: is it safe to keep driving my car with a blown ac compressor
I just found out that i need a new AC Compressor. I don't have the money to fix for now. Is it ok to drive?
Hi! It is most likely OK to operate your vehicle even thought the a/c compressor has failed. However there are a couple things to be aware of. As long as the compressor pulley is rotating smoothly, without wobble or noise, it shouldn’t affect belt tension or operation of the other belt-driven accessories. Remember that even though you leave the a/c switch in the "off" position, if you select "Defrost" setting it will try to engage the compressor.
The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our
terms of service
for more details
Get an instant quote for your car
Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing
What others are asking
Can a faulty sensor keep the engine from starting?
Today's automobiles use many different sensors to signal engine controls and computer circuits to start a vehicle's engine and run all the programing for fuel, timing, and emissions control. Bearing this in mind, it is critical for the vehicle's main...
Car loses power while accelerating
Hi. If your car is suffering in performance and the wrench indicator light has come on, then that means the vehicle needs to be serviced. A professional technician, such as one from YourMechanic, should be able to scan the vehicle...
Car running hot
The coolant may not be leaking, but fumes from the overflow can be smelled when it is running hot. Your vehicle should be checked to see if the fans are working, and the thermostat is okay. A pressure test for...
Engine starting, but stalling
The fuel filter is located on the frame rail near the fuel tank on the passenger side. The fuel pump may be having an issue with not supplying enough fuel pressure to the engine. Another possibility is that the filter...
Opinion on buying a 2003 Accord
It's a 13-year-old car and 3800 dollars is a bit pricey, but prices in a lot of areas are different than where I am since I am in a big city. If it's in a good shape, first thing you'd...
No power at all
Check the voltage at the battery terminals for 12 volts at rest. While cranking the voltage shouldn't drop very much, about 10 volts. Jump the vehicle and observe the voltage while it's running. If the voltage isn't above 13.5 volts,...
Click sound when press gas pedal
This sounds like potentially a valve train noise which is normal upon start up. As the car sits for a period of time the oil moves down to the bottom of the motor. Upon start up, the oil takes time...
My car cranks but won't start.
Hello, thanks for writing in about your 2002 Pontiac Grand AM. There are several possible causes for a vehicle to not start. There could be a fuel supply problem, an ignition problem, or even a failed sensor. For an issue...
There is an abnormal vibration when the car is in park or drive
This definitely sounds like worn, weak, or broken engine mounts (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/engine-mount-replacement). A quick visual inspection of the mount bushings may uncover which mounts are at fault. If the faulty mounts are not obvious, it may take an experienced and qualified...
Related articles
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Ford Fiesta
This This subcompact vehicle is available as a 4-door sedan as well as a 5-door hatchback. The prices for the vehicle are very low, even for the models that are decked out with all of the optional features. Those who...
How to Buy a Good Quality Heater Blower Motor Resistor
Vehicles Vehicles that are equipped with a manual HVAC, or climate control, system utilize a blower motor resistor to control the speed of the heater blower. If you are driving a minivan or an SUV with a separate rear passenger...
How Long Does an Evaporator Temperature Sensor (Switch) Last?
If If you have air conditioning in your vehicle, which pretty much all modern vehicles have, then you have an evaporator temperature sensor (switch). This switch plays an important role in making sure the correct temperature is attained, and that...
Browse other content
Maintenance
Services