My 2003 Subabru Forester AC Compressor sems to have seized. Is it merely the clutch or something inside the compressor?

Asked by Randy Aug 11, 2016 at 01:52 PM about the 2003 Subaru Forester XS

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

My 2003 Subaru AC Compressor seems to have seized.  Do you think it is the clutch or something inside the compressor?

2 Answers

4,665

Honestly, based on your description- I'd replace the entire compressor. They aren't too expensive... I just replaced on for $200.00

115

couple quick checks you can make - test for voltage at the plug - if you are getting voltage, then chances are the climate control is trying to turn it on. If you are not, then i'd start looking for an electrical problem - that could range from a fuse to an issue with the climate control/computer. if there is, then WITH THE ENGINE OFF tap the clutch a few times lightly with a heavy wrench or hammer, then start the motor and see if it "clicks" in - you can also listen for the click to see if it is engaging when the engine is running normally - if you hear a click and see it spin and stop spinning on a regular basis, chances are there is a problem either with the charge or with the compressor itself. if it is NOT clicking into place, but receiving voltage, then you may be able to replace just the clutch - if you can source the part. replacing the compressor should be done by a professional shop, as failing to pull a vacuum and removing all traces of aftermath of the burnout will best case significantly shorten the lifespan and efficiency of the replacement compressor, worst case cause another failure in a short period of time. additionally, if there is a charge issue, then the underlying cause of the likely leak needs to be addressed or you are wasting your money on the compressor.

Your Answer:

Own this car?

Share your experience with others.

2003 Subaru Forester

Review another car

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Chris W
    Reputation
    11,240
  • #2
    TheSubaruGuruBoston
    Reputation
    9,750
  • #3
    Nick Eidemiller
    Reputation
    6,210
View All

Know more, shop wisely

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Subaru Outback
1,072 Great Deals out of 35,689 listings starting at $2,498
Used Toyota RAV4
1,748 Great Deals out of 29,371 listings starting at $1,950
Used Honda CR-V
1,759 Great Deals out of 39,498 listings starting at $1,799
Used Toyota 4Runner
950 Great Deals out of 20,638 listings starting at $1,950
Used Subaru Impreza
303 Great Deals out of 7,991 listings starting at $2,495
Used Toyota Tacoma
1,417 Great Deals out of 23,402 listings starting at $3,700
Used Toyota Highlander
1,035 Great Deals out of 17,565 listings starting at $2,995
Used Subaru Legacy
342 Great Deals out of 6,570 listings starting at $499
Used Toyota Camry
1,925 Great Deals out of 40,389 listings starting at $1,275
Used Honda Pilot
840 Great Deals out of 27,154 listings starting at $1,898

Used Cars for Sale

2024 Subaru Forester For Sale
10 Great Deals out of 23,317 listings starting at $24,940
2023 Subaru Forester For Sale
29 Great Deals out of 1,243 listings starting at $24,313
2022 Subaru Forester For Sale
55 Great Deals out of 714 listings starting at $17,995
2021 Subaru Forester For Sale
174 Great Deals out of 2,552 listings starting at $13,999
2020 Subaru Forester For Sale
90 Great Deals out of 1,114 listings starting at $11,399

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.