An AC clutch cycling switch is the part of your car’s air conditioning system that engages and disengages with every cycle of your air conditioning compressor. Realistically, you probably don’t use your air conditioning every single day, unless you live in an exceptionally hot climate, but every time you do use it, you use the clutch cycling switch. Because of the constant wear and tear on the switch, it is actually the component in your entire air conditioning system that is most likely to fail.
The AC clutch cycling switch opens when the pressure drops, and closes when it rises, thus keeping the refrigerant flowing throughout the air conditioner. When the switch fails, it is usually due to wear on the contacts. When that occurs, the switch has to be replaced. The average driver will have to replace the AC clutch cycling switch every 30,000 to 40,000 miles. If you suspect that your AC clutch cycling switch is not working, avoid using your air conditioning until you can have it checked out – continued use could damage other components.
Signs that your AC clutch cycling switch needs to be replaced include:
- Not enough cool air
- No cool air at all
If you plan to use your air conditioning at all, you need to have the switch replaced. A professional mechanic can determine whether the problem is with the AC clutch cycling switch. They can also replace the AC clutch cycling switch for you if necessary.
