Air conditioning cools and dries the cabin air by compressing refrigerant and releasing heat outside. Here you will find condensers, compressors and air distribution parts.
In this guide: A/C compressors, A/C condensers, Blend doors and actuators.
A/C compressors
What it is: The compressor pressurizes the refrigerant and circulates it through the system. It is driven by the accessory belt through an electromagnetic clutch.
Where it is fitted: On the engine, in the accessory belt run.
Signs of wear: No cooling, noise or knocking when the A/C is on, or a compressor clutch that will not engage.
Did you know: If the old compressor seized, flush the system and replace the drier and expansion valve before fitting the new one, as metal debris will quickly destroy it.
A/C condensers
What it is: The condenser, sometimes called the A/C radiator, releases heat from the hot compressed refrigerant, which condenses into liquid inside it.
Where it is fitted: At the front of the vehicle, ahead of the engine radiator.
Signs of wear: Weak cooling, especially at idle, oily leak marks or damaged and corroded fins.
Did you know: Whenever the system is opened the drier should be replaced, and the system must be vacuumed before recharging.
Blend doors and actuators
What it is: Blend doors direct air to the windshield, floor or face and mix hot with cold. Small electric motors move them.
Where it is fitted: In the HVAC box behind the dashboard.
Signs of wear: Repetitive clicking behind the dash, only hot or only cold air, or air coming out where it was not set.
Did you know: Clicking behind the dash in Dodges, Jeeps and RAMs is often a failed blend door actuator; after replacement the system usually needs to be recalibrated.
Shop — Blend doors and actuators
Where to next
- Catalogue: air conditioning — choose your make, model and generation.
- Parts by VIN — we will check the fit for your car.
- Parts guide — other systems.
We sell aftermarket replacement parts, not genuine parts from vehicle manufacturers. Descriptions are general — check the fit for your vehicle by OEM number or VIN.