AC Noises Golf 4: Troubleshooting & Repair

Hi,

'On my Golf 4, manufactured in 1999, with a 110 HP AHF engine, I hear clicking noises coming from the right front engine compartment after turning on the climate control system.'
When the Climatronic system is turned off, these indicators disappear.
Is it possible that the compressor is defective (e.g., due to bearing damage)?
No noticeable reduction in cooling performance was observed.
Perhaps someone has an answer or has had similar experiences.

Thank you, best regards.
Ralf.

Hello, when you turn on the air conditioning, you hear a clicking sound that comes from the magnetic clutch.
If there is a single click sound when turning it on, that is normal.

Hello,

No, it's not just a single click from the magnetic clutch.
As long as the air conditioning is on, you can hear a continuous clicking sound.

Okay, let's pinpoint the issue more precisely with the hood open. Is anything obstructing or caught in the fan? Carefully (be aware of belts and the fan) use a long screwdriver to hold the compressor in place, then put your ear to it. Do you hear a clicking sound coming from inside the compressor? Could it be that the magnetic clutch is engaging and disengaging repeatedly? What happens to the engine speed when it's turned on? Does it briefly drop by 100 RPM, and does the MFA (Multi-Function Display) fuel consumption increase in liters per hour?
Otherwise, I can't offer any further assistance, as I don't think the description provided is sufficient. It seems clear that the problem lies in the mechanics. If you can't help yourself, why not take your car to a reputable Bosch service center and show them your AC system. They are quite knowledgeable here. I don't think (you say the cooling performance is normal) that you have too little refrigerant in your AC system. However, if that is the case, don't turn on the AC again, as this could cause problems with the compressor, which is lubricated by the refrigerant.

I hope I can be of some help, despite my rambling thoughts!
Matthias.

Hello,

I went to the 'Friendly' (presumably a mechanic or repair shop) on Saturday, and of course, the noise didn't occur there.
The expert stated that if the pressure in the system is too high, the magnetic coupling might switch on and off at short intervals.
Oh yes, the last time it happened was during rain. Could humidity have an effect on the air conditioning system?
I will continue to observe this phenomenon and get back to you.

Regards,
Ralf.