Q: Can you just replace the clutch on the AC compressor or do you have to replace the whole thing?

asked by on November 28, 2016

AC compressor pully is froze up, can we just replace the clutch on it? I don't care if the AC works I just want the pully to turn so it will run

My car has 124000 miles.

AC Compressor Replacement $715.49 - $3134.49 Get a Quote

Yes you can just replace the clutch pulley on the a/c compressor. The issue that you may have is the pulley bearing seized up and may have spun on the front of the compressor nose cone and will damage it. You may not be able to get the old pulley off and if you do the new one will not seat and hold on the front of compressor and will wobble throwing off belt. Have the pulley removed and then see the front of the compressor the shape it is in. You may need to replace compressor.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Can't get an emissions test due to faulty plug
Hi! Since the power fuse was blown and your attempts to install a new fuse causes sparks, it would seem that there is a large draw or short on that power system. First, disconnect the ground cable to the battery...
Getting troubles codes P01217, P0300, and P0300P
It sounds like the vehicle is experiencing a few different problems that will probably need to be addressed separately. It sounds to me like there is probably an electrical short somewhere on the vehicle that is draining the battery. This...
Car won't start.leaking coolant antifreeze out of drain hose.changed coolant tank cause had a crack in it.now car won't start
Hi there. There are several reasons why you might be experiencing overheating issues with your car. However, without knowing the vehicle details, it's hard to give you a good diagnosis. It could be the water pump (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-water-pump), bad thermostat (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-thermostat),...
Camshaft issue
Hi there, thanks for writing in. The most likely cause of this issue would be a leaking camshaft seal (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-camshaft-seal) that may need to be replaced (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/camshaft-seal-replacement). Many times the camshaft sensor will have a blockage near it that prevents...
timing chain marks
You should leave the gear where it is unless you plan on removing the distributor and indexing it again. The engine as of now is not on the TDC (Top Dead Center) of the compression stroke of the number one...
Car won't turn over
This may potentially be a faulty starter solenoid or relay depending on the symptoms. The starter solenoid is located on the starter and has internal electrical contacts that transmit electricity to the starter. When this fails, it may cause a...
99 Durango 5.9 46re replaced gov pressure solenoid still in limp mode. What do I do next?
Hi Jaunny. After you complete repairs, the error code that is causing the limp mode needs to be removed by a professional mechanic. Set up a warning light inspection (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/warning-light-is-on-inspection) and one of our mobile mechanics can help you out....
Body damage
You may need to take the vehicle to a body shop to have an estimate performed to determine what kind of repairs may be needed. Additionally, you will need to have an estimate performed for insurance purposes, in the event...

Related articles

How Does a Defroster Work?
We’ve We’ve all been there. You slide behind the wheel, crank the engine and then stop. You realize that you really can’t go anywhere because your windshield is fogged up. Thankfully, you can just turn on the defroster and let...
Why Does the Air Coming Through My A/C Vents Smell Bad?
Over time your car A/C system can start to smell unpleasant. If your A/C system smells bad check for mildew in the vents or install a new air filter.
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing AC Accumulator
Common signs you need to repair your AC accumulator include rattling noises during operation, noticeable refrigerant leaks, and a moldy smell.