I replaced serpentine belt about 500 miles ago. All pulleys were smooth and quiet. i noticed today a clicking sound that changes with engine speed only when a/c compressor is engaged. A/c works great as it always has. Anyone else have t his experience?

It doesnt sound like a bearing, its not whining or crashing. Its a light ticking that can only be heard outside the car.

 

The sound maybe nothing serious, but it also could be the compressor is getting ready to crap out...


Have you ever had to add refrigerant?..a possibility could be you need a few oz's of refrigerant oil added, which can be loss during any leaks..a couple of oz's should be enough to quiet it down,,,but even at that, the compressor may have been harmed by running on low oil...If you do add any, just be sure it's the right kind of oil...I think your MY is set up for R-134a, so you'll need PAG oil.


Oh, it also could be the Compressor clutch assy.

 

Never added anything. i bought the car 2.5 years ago with 144,000 rmiles it now has 156,000. Air has always been cold. Continues to work great.

 

Then more than likely it's the clutch assy and it should be fine until it starts to slip..

 

I've done some quick searching and it looks impractical to buy a clutch without compressor and looks impossible to install a clutch on the vehicle. So, looks like a new compressor when she finally gives up. Thanks for your help.

Can't complain. In the miles I've driven it I've done intake and IMT seals, plugs, normal maintenance and a thermostat. It's been a peach!

 

Put it up on ramps today in the bright sun, looks like the tensioner. Easily viewed in the bright light. When A/C is engaged, the tensioner shakes a bit causing the clicking sound. With no load, no shake and no noise. Guess I'll order a tensioner!

 

Cool...glad it was a simple problem after all..

 

Did the tensioner replacement solve the problem?
I am curious, as my car has developed what would seem to be the same sort of noise.
Thanks.
Charlie