When Does Your Car Need AC Compressor Oil

Compressor oil lubricates all the moving parts within the ac compressor and keeps them cool. It also protects rubber seals to minimize refrigerant leaks. Without sufficient oil, the compressor will have all sorts of issues and may even fail. 

To prevent such problems, note signs that indicate that the compressor is low on ac compressor oil. Some signs will tell you that you need to visit a car ac service centre. 

Signs of Low Compressor Oil Levels

There are noticeable signs when your vehicle’s air conditioner compressor oil is getting low. Some of them are:

• Humming noises – Probably the earliest signal of insufficient car ac compressor oil is the humming sounds coming from your vehicle’s ac system. You could also begin to notice that the ac compressor has difficulty starting. 
• Vehicle ac compressor has seized – A seized air conditioner compressor often signifies loss of lubrication suggesting that the oil levels are low. It means there is a leak somewhere along the hoses or connections between hose and pipe, the ac condenser, the shaft seal of the ac compressor, or the evaporator. The leak must be plugged and mended before any oil is added. 
• Smoke – The most obvious sign that the car ac compressor is extremely low in oil is when it begins releasing black smoke. It can be dangerous as it indicates that the oil is almost gone. When this happens, switch off the AC and visit the car ac servicing facility immediately.

Other low ac compressor oil symptoms -- 

1. Rods and bearings within the car ac compressor are worn or scored
2. There will be uniform scoring on the crankshaft
3. Broken rods

If you do not notice any signs but doubt the compressor oil level, you can visit the nearest car ac specialist. Also, you can have your oil checked when you go for regular car servicing. 

Remember, for your car air conditioner to function optimally, your compressor needs to have adequate oil. The oil in the compressor helps maintain the lubrication of all the vital ac auto parts.