Feel the chill without the thrill of the shake! We’re cracking the case on why your car plays a jittery jamboree every time you hit the AC. Let’s smooth out those vibes and keep your cool cruising steady.
What Causes Car Shakes When AC Is On?
Here are six common causes of car shakes when the AC is turned on:
1. Worn-out engine mounts/ Foundations
When the AC is switched on, it puts an additional load on the engine, causing it to vibrate more than usual. The engine mounts are designed to absorb these vibrations and keep the engine stable, but when they wear out, they are not able to do their job effectively. This results in the engine vibrating excessively and causing the car to shake.
In some cases, a damaged engine mount can even lead to metal-on-metal contact, which can produce a noticeable rattling sound. If you suspect that your engine mounts are worn out or damaged, it’s important to have them inspected and replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your car.
2. Dirty or Clogged Air Filter
A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict the flow of air into the engine, causing it to work harder and vibrate more when the AC is turned on. This can result in a noticeable shaking sensation, as well as a decrease in power and fuel efficiency. If your air filter hasn’t been changed in a while, it’s a good idea to have it replaced and see if that helps.
3. Malfunctioning AC Compressor
The AC compressor is responsible for compressing and circulating the refrigerant that cools the air in your car. If the compressor is malfunctioning, it can cause the AC system to work harder than usual, which can lead to excessive vibrations and shaking. In some cases, a faulty compressor may also produce strange noises, such as grinding or squealing. If you suspect that your AC compressor is the culprit, it’s best to have it inspected and repaired by a professional mechanic.
4. Loose or Worn Out Belts
The belts in your car’s engine are responsible for transferring power from the engine to various components, including the AC compressor. If these belts are loose or worn out, they may slip or vibrate when the AC is turned on, causing the car to shake. In some cases, a loose or worn belt may also produce a high-pitched squealing sound. To avoid further damage to your car, it’s important to have any loose or worn belts replaced as soon as possible.
5. Low Refrigerant Levels
If your car’s AC system is low on refrigerant, it may have to work harder than usual to cool the air in your car. This can cause the engine to vibrate and shake, as well as a decrease in cooling performance. Low refrigerant levels can be caused by a leak in the system or a malfunctioning component, such as the compressor or evaporator. If you suspect that your car is low on refrigerant, it’s important to have the AC system inspected and repaired by a professional mechanic.
6. Worn Out Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are an essential component of your car’s engine, as they ignite the fuel in the combustion chamber. Over time, spark plugs can become worn out or dirty, which can cause the engine to misfire and vibrate when the AC is turned on. In some cases, worn-out spark plugs may also cause a decrease in power and fuel efficiency. To avoid further damage to your engine, it’s important to have any worn-out spark plugs replaced as soon as possible.
How to Fix Car Shakes When AC Is On
Fixing car shakes when the AC is on can depend on the underlying cause.
- Dirty or Clogged Air Filter: If the air filter is dirty or clogged, it may need to be replaced. You can check your car’s owner’s manual to see when the air filter should be replaced or have a mechanic inspect it.
- Malfunctioning AC Compressor: A malfunctioning AC compressor will need to be inspected and repaired or replaced by a professional mechanic.
- Loose or Worn Out Belts: If the belts are loose or worn out, they may need to be tightened or replaced. A mechanic can inspect the belts and make the necessary adjustments or replacements.
- Low Refrigerant Levels: If the refrigerant levels are low, a mechanic can inspect the AC system for leaks and repair or replace any malfunctioning components.
- Worn-Out Spark Plugs: Worn-out spark plugs will need to be replaced. You can check your car’s owner’s manual to see when the spark plugs should be replaced or have a mechanic inspect them.
FAQs
Why does my car shake when the AC is on?
Car shakes when the AC is on can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a dirty air filter, low refrigerant levels, malfunctioning AC compressor, loose or worn-out belts, worn-out engine mounts or foundations, and worn-out spark plugs.
Is it safe to drive my car when it shakes when the AC is on?
It’s generally not recommended to drive your car if it’s shaking when the AC is on, as it can be a sign of a potentially serious issue. Continuing to drive the car in this condition can cause further damage and potentially lead to dangerous situations. It’s best to have the issue inspected and repaired by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.
How much does it cost to fix car shakes when the AC is on?
The cost to fix car shakes when the AC is on can vary widely depending on the underlying cause of the issue. It can range from a simple fix, such as replacing a dirty air filter or worn-out spark plugs, to a more complex repair, such as replacing worn-out engine mounts or a malfunctioning AC compressor. It’s best to have a professional mechanic inspect the issue and provide a cost estimate.
Can I fix car shakes when the AC is on myself?
Some causes of car shake when the AC is on, such as replacing a dirty air filter or worn-out spark plugs, can be fixed by a car owner with some mechanical experience. However, more complex issues, such as replacing worn-out engine mounts or a malfunctioning AC compressor, should be left to professional mechanics with specialized tools and expertise.
How can I prevent car shakes when the AC is on?
Regular maintenance on your car, such as oil changes, tune-ups, and air filter replacements, can help prevent potential issues from arising. Additionally, taking care of any small issues as soon as they arise can prevent them from turning into larger and more expensive problems.
Conclusion
Car shakes when the AC is on can be caused by a variety of issues, ranging from simple fixes like replacing a dirty air filter or worn-out spark plugs to more complex repairs like replacing worn-out engine mounts or a malfunctioning AC compressor.
Continuing to drive your car when it’s shaking when the AC is on can cause further damage and potentially lead to dangerous situations. It’s important to have the issue inspected and repaired by a professional mechanic as soon as possible to ensure your car runs smoothly and safely.
