How To Fix HVAC Compressor Failure in a Volvo

Volvos have long been known for their excellent design and providing customers with a reliable and comfortable experience. Unfortunately, one of the most common issues that Volvo owners tend to complain about is a failure or noticeable decrease in the HVAC operating system. This is most commonly due to a failed compressor. While you may not need to work on your Volvo yourself, it is a good thing to have a general understanding of the repair process. Let’s take a look at Volvo HVAC systems in the article below.

Bad HVAC Compressor in your Volvo

There are a few common symptoms that you may experience when your car’s compressor is beginning to fail, or worse, has completely failed. Let’s take a closer look at some of these:

Not Cooling

We all love that crisp, cool breeze that a working air conditioner system puts out to cool our cabin. When the HVAC system begins to have problems, you may suddenly notice that your vents are not putting out the same cold air that is used to provide.

Loud Fan

Often, when the compressor is beginning to fail, the car’s sensors will attempt to overcome some of the failures by working harder. The fan is the most common. You will begin to easily hear the fan trying to force air into your cabin.

Hot/ Warm Air

If your system is blowing hot or warm air, regardless of the cooler settings you try to adjust, then your compressor is most likely unable to move the refrigerant through the system. This is a sure sign that there is a problem.

Compressor Runs Constantly

The HVAC system has a clutch that allows the compressor to run when needed and disengage to save wear and energy when it is not needed. When the compressor just keeps running, it is likely due to the clutch going bad. However, this will lead to excess wear on the compressor.

If you are experiencing any of these issues, then you should make sure to get into one of our service departments as soon as possible. Unfortunately, a bad compressor can lead to many other complications with your car, so the sooner you fix it the better off you will likely be.

What to Expect When You Need Your Compressor Fixed

Any of the above issues will require the expertise of a trained service technician. When you take your car in for the inspection, you can expect that all the AC components will be examined. All hoses and pressurized lines will be inspected for leaks. Leaks cause a loss of coolant which is cycled through the system by the compressor. In a few cases, recharging the system may be all that is needed. Finding a leak early can help preserve coolant and potentially save money.

If your compressor is bad, then it will need to be replaced. At this time, you may want to consider replacing some of the other HVAC components, such as the pressurized lines and compressor clutch.

No matter what the problem is, your ASE certified technician at A&M Auto Service will be more than happy to explain each issue that is discovered as well as your options. We will provide you with expert repairs to get you back on the road enjoying a cool breeze as soon as possible. We can also help you maintain a regular service and maintenance schedule that will help you to avoid any costly repairs in the future.

Choose A&M Auto Service for Your Volvo

For those located near the communities of Pineville, Charlotte, and Greensboro, North Carolina, you will find no other service provider more qualified than A&M Auto Service. We have been providing top of the line service for Volvo owners as well as other European, Import, and Domestic models for over 25 years.

At A&M, you can count on our expert technicians to give you and your car the services you need at a competitive price you can afford, usually a fraction of what you will find at a dealership. Our ASE certified technicians are available to offer complete repairs for your Volvo, and we will always consult you with our inspection results and obtain your approval before any work is performed. Call us today for an appointment or come by to speak to one of our technicians.