No cold air at idle and compressor started smoking at clutch

2004 HONDA CRV
102,000 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
STEPHENLOVESDOGE
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I was sitting in a parking lot with A/C on the and the actual compressor started smoking at the clutch area. It was smoking right at the point where the shaft enters the compressor body. My original compressor actually blew the side out last year leaving a hole about the size of a quarter. So I replaced the entire system hoses, condenser, accumulator, A/C switches and I mean every A/C part exactly one year and a couple days ago. After replacing the system it ran with no problems whatsoever. I was actually really proud because it was a pain working under the dash at the age of 55. Anyway it did work really great and blew really cold air for one year and a couple days. It always seemed to struggle to push air at idle when you were just sitting in it even when the original compressor was in it but I was wary of trying it to test it out again because I didn't want it to seize up and break or damage the belt since I was about 30 miles from home. So now my compressor basically acts as a bypass pulley and it has been about three weeks since it happened. I don't have any idea if it's the clutch or compressor but I'm waiting for a new belt to arrive so then I've got a spare in case of breakage. Actually I don't want to mess with anything until I can afford another compressor because I've got numerous doctor appointments every week and it's my only form of transportation. I live way out in country and I'm a Disabled US Army Veteran on a seriously fixed income so if anyone know where I can get a decent compressor at a cheap price I would really appreciate it. It has already been in the high 90's here in Georgia so I need to replace it pretty soon before it gets really hot here.
Jun 30, 2020 at 10:37 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
KASEKENNY
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 18,907 POSTS
It does sound like the compressor is locking up if you are leaving the system off the pulley is able to spin. If when you engage it, it starts smoking then it is most likely locked up.

Here is a link to a popular website with pretty reasonable prices:

https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/honda,2004,cr-v,2.4l+l4,1425518,heat+&+air+conditioning,a/c+compressor,6628

Unfortunately, we need to possibly redo some of what you have done but here is a guide that includes things to think about when replacing a compressor:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-air-conditioner-compressor

Let us know how you make out. Thanks
Jul 1, 2020 at 7:53 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.