AC compressor chirping

[Jonas]

Hi all. 2009 Pontiac Vibe GT. There is an intermittent chirping sound coming from my AC compressor. It's about 4 years old. Sometimes it's quiet at idle, and sometimes it chirps/squeaks. I usually hear it when coming to a stop or accelerating from a stop. The AC still works and running the AC seems to quieten it down. The pulley spins freely/quietly by hand, but I remember it having some resistance when it was new. I'm assuming the pulley bearing is on its way out, but is it possible it's just low on refrigerant/oil? How long would I be able to drive with it like this? Any other thoughts or advice are appreciated.

Jonas

 

[D60]

Can you get eyes on it? If it's truly quiet when engaged it's likely just the clutch bearing. Typically the clutch can be replaced without disturbing the charge.

 

[clinebarger]

Can you get eyes on it? If it's truly quiet when engaged it's likely just the clutch bearing. Typically the clutch can be replaced without disturbing the charge.

Changing the clutch on a aftermarket compressors isn't always possible....I.E. a replacement clutch made for the factory compressor won't fit.

 

[Jonas]

I bypass the AC compressor and the noise still persists. I started a new thread with a video.

Post in thread 'Unidentified chirping/squealing noise from engine area.'

Mar 3, 2025

Sounds like a vibrating exhaust shield or maybe from the belt (slipping, bad bearing).

How does it change with engine speed? Does it go away?

• martinq

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