Hi all, first time on this HondaTech site. I have a 2010 Civic that's having an AC issue. When I press the "AC" button on my dash, the compressor clutch isn't engaging. I've checked pressures and it looks like I have sufficient pressure. I even tried recharging the system before I realized that the clutch wasn't engaging.

One question I have - if the compressor is bad, will the clutch still engage? I want to verify that it isn't the clutch.

Another question - is the clutch going out common?

Another question - can you replace the clutch without removing the radiator? Can it be replaced without removing and recharging the refrigerant?


Thank you ahead of time!

 

Did you try swapping in a new a/c relay ?
If the system is too low on refrigerant the compressor will not engage .

 

I agree with Audripulls. I'd replace the A/C relay. Mine went out after a compressor install and it fired right back up. Clutch won't engage for a couple reasons. A/C Relay, compressor is shot, lack of refrigerant. There may be other reasons but I'd start with the A/C Relay. I bought mine of Amazon for $20.

 

If the condenser fan runs, try tapping the face of the compressor clutch with a rubber mallet. If this causes the clutch to engage, then the air gap may be too large and the clutch just needs to be re-shimmed.