2014 Subaru Cross Trek Hybrid Air Conditioning Compressor
About this episode
Mark and Bernie discuss the challenges faced while servicing a 2014 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, focusing on a noisy air conditioning compressor. They delve into the unique aspects of this mild hybrid, including its specialized compressor and serpentine belt system. The conversation highlights common issues with Subaru's AC fittings and the environmental impact of refrigerant leaks. After a detailed repair process involving a robust tensioning system, the vehicle is restored to optimal performance, leaving the owner satisfied. Insights into hybrid technology and maintenance tips are also shared.
Subaru Crosstrek
"So today's guest is a 2014 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid."
The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is a small SUV that uses both gas and electricity to run, which helps it save on fuel. It's good for driving in different conditions, like on city streets or rough terrain.
The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is a compact crossover SUV that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency. It is known for its all-wheel drive capabilities and versatility, making it suitable for both urban and off-road driving.
air conditioning compressor bearing
"...found the air conditioning compressor bearing was basically fried."
The air conditioning compressor bearing is a small part that helps the car's air conditioning system work. If it gets damaged, it can make loud noises and stop the AC from working properly.
The air conditioning compressor bearing is a critical component in the air conditioning system of a vehicle. It allows the compressor to rotate smoothly, and if it fails, it can lead to noise and malfunction of the AC system.
Subaru Hybrid
"So Subaru Hybrid, this is not a very common car? No, it's not."
The Subaru Hybrid is a type of car that uses both gasoline and electricity to run. It's not very common, especially in the U.S., and is designed to be more fuel-efficient than regular cars.
The Subaru Hybrid refers to a hybrid vehicle produced by Subaru, which combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency. This particular model is noted for being uncommon in the market.
mild hybrid
"It's what's called a mild hybrid. It just has a small battery under the hood."
A mild hybrid is a type of car that has a small battery to help the engine use less fuel, but it can't run on electricity alone like a full hybrid can.
A mild hybrid is a vehicle that uses a small electric motor and battery to assist the internal combustion engine, improving fuel efficiency without the ability to drive solely on electric power.
serpentine belt
"the vehicle runs a wider belt. We'll look at pictures in a minute, but it runs a wider serpentine belt and the alternator is a starting assistant motor as well as an alternator to charge the battery."
A serpentine belt is a long, flat belt in a car's engine that helps power different parts like the alternator and air conditioning.
A serpentine belt is a single, continuous belt used to drive multiple peripheral devices in an engine, such as the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor.
alternator
"the alternator is a starting assistant motor as well as an alternator to charge the battery."
An alternator is a part of the car that makes electricity to keep the battery charged and power things like lights and radio while the engine is on.
An alternator is a component in a vehicle that converts mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy to charge the battery and power the electrical system when the engine is running.
Toyota Prius
"Yeah, I mean, Prius has been around since, what, like 2000? So it's, yeah, I'd still call it early."
The Toyota Prius is one of the first popular hybrid cars. It uses both gas and electricity to run, which helps it save fuel and is better for the environment.
The Toyota Prius is a pioneering hybrid vehicle that was first introduced in 1997 and became widely popular in the early 2000s. It is known for its fuel efficiency and eco-friendly design.
AC compressor
"So the red arrow points to the AC compressor. That yellow arrow is pointing to one of the air conditioning fittings."
The AC compressor is a part of the car's air conditioning system that helps cool down the inside of the car by moving refrigerant around.
The AC compressor is a critical component of an automotive air conditioning system. It compresses refrigerant and circulates it through the system, allowing the vehicle's cabin to be cooled.
refrigerant
"But you can see a bit of darkness around it. That fitting was actually leaking a bit of refrigerant, which is actually common on a lot of Subaru's for that high-side fitting to leak air conditioning or refrigerant."
Refrigerant is a special fluid used in air conditioning systems to help cool the air inside the car. If it leaks out, the air conditioning won't work properly.
Refrigerant is a substance used in air conditioning systems to absorb and release heat, allowing the system to cool the air. Leaks in the system can lead to reduced cooling efficiency.
oil filter
"And you can see sort of a black line going up that white cylindrical device. So that's the oil filter."
An oil filter is a part of the car that cleans the oil that keeps the engine running. If it gets dirty or broken, it can cause problems for the engine.
The oil filter is a crucial component in an engine that removes contaminants from engine oil, helping to ensure the engine runs smoothly and efficiently. A clogged or damaged oil filter can lead to engine wear and failure.
tensioner system
"...this interesting tensioner system on the alternator. It's got a very large, unique alternator and this tensioning system has actually two pulleys that are squeezed together around the belt."
The tensioner system keeps the belt tight so that parts like the alternator can work properly. If the belt is too loose, it can cause problems with the car's electrical system.
The tensioner system is responsible for maintaining the proper tension on the drive belt, which is crucial for the operation of components like the alternator and the compressor. It ensures that the belt does not slip or become loose during operation.
pulley
"...this spring is insane. It holds this belt in place."
A pulley is a round part that helps move a belt around in the car. It helps connect different parts so they can work together, like the engine and the alternator.
A pulley is a wheel on an axle designed to support movement and change of direction of a cable or belt. In automotive applications, pulleys are used to transfer power from the engine to various components like the alternator and water pump.
Pollock Automotive
"You can reach them online and book right there, PollockAutomotive.com."
Pollock Automotive is a car repair shop in Vancouver, Canada. They help fix and maintain different types of cars, especially Subarus.
Pollock Automotive is an automotive service provider located in Vancouver, BC, Canada. They specialize in servicing various vehicle makes, including Subaru, and are known for their expertise in repairs and maintenance.
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