WilD
Dork
8/1/18 8:14 a.m.
I have a 2016 Subaru Crosstrek, under 20K miles. The AC works, but I have noticed that the compressor kicks on and off ant approximately 30 second intervals. This makes an audible whine and bogs the engine very slighlty, it appears the car boosts RPM a tad to offset the load. The noise isn't really notable when the car is moving at highway speed, but is when sitting and idling. I think I can however feel a tiny dip/surge when traveling at highway speeds.
Is this within the normal operation of car AC, or does this indicate a problem? I swear I can't really tell when the AC kicks on/off on other cars. I was going to try to take it in for a warranty repair, but since the AC is technically working, I'm a little concerned I am being "that guy" and overly obsessive. What are the hive's thoughts?
Frequent cycling could indicate low refrigerant. Hopefully someone with more knowledge of the subject will comment.
The MPV did something similar when the fan control module failed. A/C worked fine at speed, but would frequently cut out idling at a stop light. Refrigerant charge was perfect. Verify fans come on with the A/C.
WilD
Dork
8/8/18 9:17 a.m.
UPDATE: I took it to the dealer and they said it checked out normal in terms of refrigerant level, and they could find no leaks or problems.
I did confirm myself that the noise I hear and feel is the clutch on the AC compressor kicking on. It kicks on runs for a few seconds then clicks off. It does this at approximately 20 second intervals. The fans do come on with it. So, normal then? It seems to me like the compressor is cycling on/off more than I would expect and placing noticeable drag on the engine. Maybe this is normal for Subaru... I don't feel convinced. What does the hive think?