(G) Strange Noise From Drivers Footwell When Air-Con Is On

Hi guys,

Has anyone else come across an annoying noise from the drivers footwell when they turn the air-con compressor on? It seems to react to engine revs and is most noticeable when the revs drop after revving the engine.

It sounds like it comes from directly behind the pedals and is only there when you push the air-con button to turn the compressor on... anyone have any ideas?

Cheers!

Has no-one come across this before?

I take it that the compressor speed increases with engine revs because of the aux belt, so I was wondering whether it could be the compressor slowing after the speed increase, or maybe the pressure build up being released? I wonder if it could be the compressor clutch slipping... I'm really shooting in the dark here...

Does anyone have any experience with the air-con system that might give them an idea of what it might be?

i've got the same, and it's most prabobly compressor bearing on it's way out

Compressors are really expensive, even reconditioned ones

I've been told that it could be the belt tensioner bearing going which is only presenting itself when the compressor is turned on, putting load on the belt and the tensioner in turn.

Here's hoping that's all it is, as it a shed load cheaper...

I think there's a service bulletin out on the aux drive pulley for certain models. The rubber shock absorbing material in the pulley disintegrates and it all comes apart. Might be worth checking out if you are covered

Sounds good, I'll look into that. Was it a recall item? My Abarth has had all recall items done...

The mechanic said that it would be unlikely (but not unheard of) for the compressor to have a problem as they're quite robust... with a bit of luck, it's just the tensioner as I could do without spending a minimum of £300 on a new compressor

Not a recall, I think it's just a service bulletin

When they fail, you get a loud clatter sound at idle.

The recall only affects all cars built between 01/05/2006 and 31/05/2006.

They need to recall JTD's for this as they are very prone to failing and the part is expensive. - already changed mine. One mechanic I spoke to said he has seen several that were left and not changed. They break loose, smash the plastic cam belt cover, cam belt jumps off - Game over for the engine.