camlex Posted February 11, 2007 Share Posted February 11, 2007 Hello, I have 97 Lexus ES300 and I always set my climate control @ 73 F. My current milage is 231,000. Recently, I have been hearing a chirping noise when the A/C Compressor engages. I know it's old and has been running for a long time, but is there anything I can do? What exactly happens when a compressor goes bad? Thank you. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kauz Posted February 11, 2007 Share Posted February 11, 2007 The chirping is most likely due to the Alt/Compressor belt slippage. Here are some suggestions: - Check the condition of the belt, especially the inner track and the sides. Use a flash light or a shop light if you have to. If you see any cracks in the belt or chunks missing, then you'll need to replace the belt. The belts should probably be replaced every 60K-90K miles. - If the belt looks good, then it might need to be tightened up a bit. When the AC comes on it puts a load on the engine and the belt is slipping and causing the chirping sound. As a rough test, you can press firmly on the middle of the belt and if it goes down more than 1/2 inch then it's too loose. Kauz Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
camlex Posted February 11, 2007 Author Share Posted February 11, 2007 FYI, I replaced all belts @ 205,000 but I will check the belt's tightness. Thanks, Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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