A/C not working properly, can I drive without the A/C on until I can get it checked?

TATTEDDRAGUN

MEMBER
2008 SATURN OUTLOOK
3.6L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
170,000 MILES

A/C isn't blowing very well or cold after an hour drive, today hearing a whine at times with A/C on and not cooling very well. My question is, can I drive without A/C on until I can get it checked, was told if the compressor goes out, car will stop. Priced compressor online, but when I look up costs it shows it's very expensive, but part wasn't but 150ish.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,872 POSTS

Hi,

Certainly, you can drive with it off. When someone said the car may stop may be thinking of the compressor locking up, but that doesn't happen too often. If it does, you will hear the A/C belt starting to screech. Eventually

As far as the problem, it likely just needs freon added. I don't know if you are comfortable doing it, but here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/air-conditioner-how-to-add-freon

If you want to try, let me know and I'll help. Also, you can purchase the freon at nearly any parts store.

Let me know what I can do to help or if you have other questions. Also, if it is excessively hot where you are, it isn't out of the ordinary to hear a whine. The pressure in the system increases with heat which can result in noise.

Also, if the compressor locks, as mentioned, you will hear screeching from the belt, being unable to turn the pulley. The belt can eventually break and the vehicle at that point should be turned off, but it will give you a minute to safely exit the road. So, unless you hear loud screeching, relax. You'll be fine.

Take care,

Joe