Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
On-Vehicle Inspection
- Set up manifold gauge set. See SET UPΒ .
- Start engine.
- Inspect compressor for metallic sound.
- Check if there is a metallic sound from the compressor when the A/C switch is on.
- If metallic sound is not heard, replace the compressor assembly.
- Inspect refrigerant pressure. See step Β 2 under ON-VEHICLE INSPECTION.
- Stop engine.
- Inspect visually for leakage of refrigerant from safety seal.
- Using a gas leak detector, check for leakage of refrigerant. If there is any leakage, replace the compressor assembly.
- Take down manifold gauge set. See TAKE DOWNΒ .
- Check for leakage of grease from clutch bearing.
- Check for signs of oil on pressure plate.
- If necessary, repair or replace.
- Inspect magnetic clutch bearing for noise.
- Start engine.
- Check for abnormal noise from near the compressor when the A/C switch is OFF.
If abnormal noise is being emitted, replace the magnetic clutch.
- 5VZ-FE engine: Inspect magnetic clutch operation.
- Disconnect the connector.
- Connect the positive (+) lead from the battery to terminal on the magnetic clutch connector and the negative (-) lead to the body ground.
- Check that the magnetic clutch is energized.
If operation is not as specified, replace the magnetic clutch.
- 2UZ-FE engine: Inspect magnetic clutch operation.
- Disconnect the connector.
- Connect the positive (+) lead from the battery to terminal 3 and the negative (-) lead to the body ground.
- Check that the magnetic clutch is energized.
If operation is not as specified, replace the magnetic clutch.
- 2UZ-FE engine: Inspect compressor lock sensor resistance.
- Disconnect the connector.
- Measure resistance between terminals 1 and 2.
Standard resistance: 65-125 Ξ© at 20Β° C (68Β° F)
If resistance is not as specified, replace the compressor.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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.