A/C Makes Car Accelerate Rough CVT Engine

Introduction

When you turn on your car’s air conditioning, you may notice that the engine accelerates rough. This is a common problem, especially in cars with continuously variable transmissions (CVTs).

CVTs are designed to provide a smooth, fuel-efficient driving experience. However, they can be sensitive to changes in engine load, such as when you turn on the air conditioning.

When you turn on the air conditioning, the compressor kicks in and puts a load on the engine. This can cause the engine to rev up and the car to accelerate rough.

Causes

There are several possible causes of this problem:

* **Low refrigerant levels:** If the refrigerant level in your car’s air conditioning system is low, the compressor will have to work harder to cool the air. This can put a strain on the engine and cause it to accelerate rough.
* **Dirty air filter:** A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, which can also cause it to accelerate rough.
* **Slipping serpentine belt:** The serpentine belt drives the air conditioning compressor. If the belt is slipping, it can cause the compressor to put a load on the engine and cause it to accelerate rough.
* **Faulty air conditioning compressor:** A faulty air conditioning compressor can also cause the engine to accelerate rough.

Solutions

There are several possible solutions to this problem:

* **Check the refrigerant level:** If the refrigerant level is low, you will need to have it recharged.
* **Replace the air filter:** If the air filter is dirty, you will need to replace it.
* **Tighten the serpentine belt:** If the serpentine belt is slipping, you will need to tighten it.
* **Have the air conditioning compressor inspected:** If the air conditioning compressor is faulty, you will need to have it replaced.

Prevention

There are several things you can do to prevent this problem:

* **Keep the refrigerant level topped off:** Check the refrigerant level regularly and have it recharged if necessary.
* **Replace the air filter regularly:** Replace the air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles.
* **Keep the serpentine belt tight:** Check the serpentine belt for wear and tear and tighten it if necessary.
* **Have the air conditioning compressor inspected regularly:** Have the air conditioning compressor inspected by a qualified technician every year.

By following these tips, you can help prevent your car’s engine from accelerating rough when you turn on the air conditioning.