Compressor Noise at Idle - Normal?

[tacopower]

Hi All,

I picked up a Mazda 3 Sport 5-speed about 6 weeks ago and was wondering if this is normal:

When I start the car, for a few seconds after starting it, there is a "click" noise followed by the hum of what sounds like a compressor. This shuts down after a 3-5 seconds.

Then, if I leave the car idling, every 20-30 seconds or so, there is a click, followed by compressor noises (which shuts off after 2-3 seconds), but it keeps doing that (even when my A/C is off).

Is this normal? Has anyone else experienced it?

Any insight would be appreciated!

Thanks,
T

[majic]

the compressor will turn on if you turn on the fan (1-4) and set the vent dial to legs only (12 o'clock) or to the right of it (even though the A/C light remains off)..

that's normal.. try it, if you set it to the left of legs only, you'll quickly see the windows fogging up..

what's your vent dial set to?

[Triplebogey]

Hi All,

I picked up a Mazda 3 Sport 5-speed about 6 weeks ago and was wondering if this is normal:

When I start the car, for a few seconds after starting it, there is a "click" noise followed by the hum of what sounds like a compressor. This shuts down after a 3-5 seconds.

Then, if I leave the car idling, every 20-30 seconds or so, there is a click, followed by compressor noises (which shuts off after 2-3 seconds), but it keeps doing that (even when my A/C is off).

Is this normal? Has anyone else experienced it?

Any insight would be appreciated!

Thanks,
T



Funny you mention this as I was test driving a mazda 3 gt sedan about 3 weeks ago and I noticed a similar noise. I thought is was related to the climate control. Not sure if this is normal or not????

[Skarbro]

It's normal.

[tacopower]

Thanks, all for the responses--much appreciate!
(The Vent dial was set to the legs + windows combo dial).

When I get home, I'll try it with setting to "head".

Thanks again,
T

[TheAnswer_03]

Does the AC compressor run even with Fan level set to 0? I'm getting a very annoying chirping sound coming from my car at low speeds sometimes (30 to 40km/h), for example coming to the off ramp off the highway. Dealer said it was the AC compressor clutch, but I'm pretty sure my Fan level was 0 and setting was turned all the way left ("head setting") and still getting the sound I believe. I don't want to spend $700 for a new compressor if not needed.

[TheAnswer_03]

Can I just go to the dealer and have them remove the AC compressor completely? I rarely use AC, only concern is that since AC is in-use when defrost is on, will the defrost still work but less effective or not work at all without the AC compressor?

[Reddie1337]

The defrost still works without the A/C, I ran all winter with my A/C fuse pulled out so that it didn't turn on. You don't actually have to get rid of the compressor if you want it off, you could always cut the belt running from the crankshaft to the compressor. (It is a separate belt that the one that runs the water pump and the alternator. I wouldn't get rid of it with the temperatures we have been having, and will continue to get, unless you are very adapted to high heat.

[rajin929]

no A/C will also net you and extra 50hp.....more with the Speed3 guys.

[Reddie1337]

no A/C will also net you and extra 50hp.....more with the Speed3 guys.

I believe you mean about 15, not 50. A/C is a little more efficient than that.

[stefanb]

I believe you mean about 15, not 50. A/C is a little more efficient than that.

15? Try 1

[rajin929]

was being sarcastic