How to Fix Rough Idle When AC is On

When you turn on your car’s air conditioning system, you expect it to cool the interior of your vehicle and make your ride more comfortable. However, if you notice that your car’s engine is idling roughly when the AC is on, it can be a sign of a problem that needs to be addressed. In this article, we will discuss some of the common causes of rough idle when AC is on and how to fix them.

Causes of Rough Idle When AC is On

1. Dirty Air Filter

The air filter in your car’s engine helps to keep dirt and debris from entering the engine. If the air filter is dirty or clogged, it can restrict the flow of air to the engine, causing it to idle roughly when the AC is on. To fix this problem, you should replace the air filter with a new one.

2. Faulty Idle Control Valve

The idle control valve is responsible for regulating the engine’s idle speed. If the valve is faulty or dirty, it can cause the engine to idle roughly when the AC is on. To fix this problem, you should clean or replace the idle control valve.

3. Low Refrigerant Level

The refrigerant in your car’s AC system helps to cool the air that is blown into the interior of your vehicle. If the refrigerant level is low, it can cause the AC compressor to work harder, which can lead to rough idle. To fix this problem, you should have your AC system checked for leaks and have the refrigerant level topped up.

4. Dirty Throttle Body

The throttle body is responsible for regulating the amount of air that enters the engine. If the throttle body is dirty or clogged, it can restrict the flow of air to the engine, causing it to idle roughly when the AC is on. To fix this problem, you should clean the throttle body with a throttle body cleaner.

How to Fix Rough Idle When AC is On

1. Replace the Air Filter

To replace the air filter, locate the air filter housing in your car’s engine compartment. Open the housing and remove the old air filter. Replace it with a new one and close the housing.

2. Clean or Replace the Idle Control Valve

To clean the idle control valve, locate it in your car’s engine compartment. Remove it and clean it with a throttle body cleaner. If the valve is faulty, you should replace it with a new one.

3. Check and Top Up the Refrigerant Level

To check the refrigerant level, you should have your AC system checked by a professional mechanic. If the refrigerant level is low, they will top it up for you.

4. Clean the Throttle Body

To clean the throttle body, locate it in your car’s engine compartment. Remove it and clean it with a throttle body cleaner. Reinstall the throttle body and start your car. The rough idle should be gone.

By following these simple steps, you can fix the rough idle when AC is on in your car. If the problem persists, you should have your car checked by a professional mechanic.

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