GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Yes

No

DEFINITION: Noise originating from the A/C compressor, drive belt or the A/C lines.

1

Were you sent here from HVAC Symptoms or another diagnostic table?

Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle.

2

Inspect and if necessary rectify any faults with the accessory drive belt and drive belt tensioner.

Go to Step 3

 

3

Run the engine and check for possible compressor noise.

Does the noise last longer than 30 seconds?

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 4

4

    • Allow the engine to run for a few minutes.
    • Stop engine and let it rest for a minute.
    • Restart engine.

Is any noise detected using this procedure?

Go to Step 6

It is normal to observe a liquid sludging condition. This may occur after extended system shut down at warmer ambient temperatures, followed by an overnight ambient temperature drop

5

Check if the system has a low refrigerant charge.

Is there enough system gas?

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 8

6

Check if the thermostatic expansion (TX) valve is stuck closed or open.

Is the TX valve stuck?

Carry out TX valve diagnosis. Refer to Air Conditioning Evaporator Thermal Expansion Valve Replacement.

Go to Step 7

7

Check for any loose compressor bolt and/or A/C plumbing contacting the bodywork.

Is there any A/C plumbing contacting the bodywork or mounting bolts loose?

Tighten bolts and/or relocate plumbing

Go to Step 8

8

  1. Recover refrigerant and replace compressor.
  2. Recharge the system

Are the gas pressures within specification?

System checks complete

Go to Step 1