If your Volvo keeps you comfortable in extreme weather conditions; keeping you warm when it’s cold outside or cool when the summer heat is blazing, you have the HVAC system to thank for that. The HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system works with various components to regulate the temperature in your car.
The compressor is an important part of the HVAC system and it works by compressing the refrigerant, making it suitable to absorb the hot temperature in the car. This means that you can have a cool atmosphere even when it’s hot outside. A faulty compressor means an uncomfortable and sweaty ride. Hence, this guide shows how to identify a bad compressor and how to fix it.
What are the Signs that Show a Faulty Volvo HVAC Compressor
A bad compressor in a car can be caused by various reasons—from general wear and tear of the car parts to a lack of maintenance. Hence, a car can show different signs that indicate a fault based on why the problem is occurring. We have highlighted some common signs of a compressor failure in a car.
1. Extremely hot temperature
It is obvious that the first thing you will notice in our Volvo if the compressor is bad, is a high temperature. Your AC could be on and you and other passengers could be sweaty and irritable. This indicates that the air conditioning system is not removing hot air as effectively and it could be due to a damaged compressor.
2. Fluid leaks
One of the tells of a compressor problem in a car is when fluid starts to leak out of the HVAC system. You could either see a refrigerant pool under your car or tiny oil specks. These leaks show that a part of the HVAC system or compressor has been broken or damaged.
3. Unusual noises
If your car starts to make weird noises all of a sudden, especially when you turn on the air conditioning, then it could be because the compressor is bad. It could be a clunking or rattling sound to indicate damage to the internal parts of your car’s compressor.
What to Do When Your Volvo’s HVAC Compressor is Faulty
It can be quite difficult to manage a faulty HVAC compressor in your car as it means that you get sweaty and uncomfortable throughout your ride. You do not have to endure that. Hence, if your car has a faulty compressor, here are a few things you can do.
Perform thorough inspections
If your car starts to indicate a fault with its HVAC compressor, you should first inspect the compressor to identify the reason for the fault. Sometimes, it could be a minor cause that can be fixed in little time. In more complex cases, you may need to get a mechanic to help. Either way, a quick inspection can let you know what to do next.
Lubrication
Your compressor can be showing signs of a fault because it is not well lubricated. Hence, you can reverse any damage done by supplying sufficient lubrication to the HVAC system. You should also ensure you are using the right oil and in the right quantity to prevent even more damage.
Find a Mechanic
If you have tried the above and you do not notice any changes in your car’s HVAC system, then it is time to find help from a professional. A faulty compressor could mean several things; hence, you need a trained technician to make sure.
Also, if the fault in your car’s compressor is due to an extreme case, you may need to replace the compressor, and you should only trust a mechanic to help with that.
Where to Find a Professional Mechanic for Your Car’s Compressor Issues in Austin
As a Volvo owner in Austin, if your car is 
showing signs of problems with the HVAC system, then you need a professional mechanic to help you handle repairs or replacement of the faulty part.
Swedish Auto Service is a top auto workshop in Austin for your car’s repair and replacement services. We help car owners in Cedar Park, Round Rock, and Leander fix any problems with their cars. We also offer affordable maintenance services to keep cars in great shape.
