I have a 2001 Civic whose A/C compresoor does not run. However, there's some electronic component on it, and if you jump this thing, the compressor starts right up. So, does anyone know what this is? Is it replaceable? Is it OK yo leave it permanently jumped? Thanks!

 

It's the over-temperature switch. If you run low (but not completely out) on refrigerant, the compressor will overheat and that switch will protect it. I think it is glued to the compressor so officially it can't be replaced seperately.

It is OK to just leave it jumpered, you do risk compressor failure trying to keep running while low on refrigerant. If you notice a loss of performance turn off the A/C manually until the charge can be checked.

 

Thanks very much. Since the switch is non-replaceable, it comes down to replace the compressor now, or possibly in the future. I know what I'll do. I'll be careful - I've already fixed the car so the A/C doesn't stay on all the time when using defrost.

Bill

 

There is more than one switch that controlls the compressor clutch. There is also a pressure switch that disengages the compressor clutch if thepressure is to low (or high, don't remember at the moment). I would find the pressure switch and jump and see if the compressor turns on. There might be one other switch that controlls the clutch as well. Don't have teh schematic right now so I can't tell for sure.