Compressor Clutch Does Not Engage

2005 Buick Rainier AWD V8-5.3L VIN MSECTION Compressor Clutch Does Not Engage


HVAC COMPRESSOR CLUTCH DOES NOT ENGAGE

DIAGNOSTIC AIDS
- The air conditioning (A/C) compressor is protected from overheating by the compressor temperature switch, which is mounted at the rear of the A/C compressor. The switch is wired internally to the compressor and is not serviceable. The switch opens and disengages the compressor clutch when temperatures reach 135 °C (275 °F). The switch closes when the compressor temperature cools to 120 °C (248 °F).
- A/C compressor clutch will not engage under the following conditions:
- The A/C high side line pressure is over 2,413 kPa (350 psi).
- The A/C low side line pressure is under 151 kPa (22 psi).
- Throttle angle is at 100 percent.
- Engine speed is more than 5,500 RPM.
- Engine coolant temperature (ECT) is more than 123 °C (253 °F).
- Ambient air temperature is less than 1 °C (35 °F).
- Engine is idling at a low unstable RPM.

TEST DESCRIPTION

Steps 1 - 6:




Steps 6 - 12:




Steps 13 - 21:




Steps 22 - 35:




The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
2. The A/C compressor output is disabled if the engine is idling at a low unstable RPM.
3. The A/C compressor relay output is disabled if engine coolant temperature is above 123 °C (253 °F). The engine coolant indicator will illuminate at this temperature.
4. This step ensures that the HVAC control module is receiving an input from the A/C switch.
5. These actions will enable the A/C compressor to operate.
6. This test ensures that there is sufficient refrigerant in the A/C system. The specific values come from the A/C System Performance Test in Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning.
8. The A/C low pressure switch parameter is out of range when the HVAC control module interprets the signal being below 151 kPa (22 psi) or above 275 kPa (40 psi).
9. This action will simulate a closed switch condition. If the Pressure Cycle Switch parameter reads Low Pressure than there is a circuit condition or a condition with the HVAC control module.
12. The A/C compressor relay output from the powertrain control module (PCM) is disabled if the A/C high side system pressure is interpreted to be higher than 2,413 kPa (350 psi).
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.