Where Is the Clutch Cycling Switch Located?

Q: Where Is the Clutch Cycling Switch Typically Located?

A: The clutch cycling switch is usually mounted on the accumulator on the low-pressure side of the A/C system.

It’s important to note that not every vehicle A/C system has a low pressure cycling switch. The switch, where it’s used, is typically on fixed orifice systems. It cycles the A/C compressor to prevent the evaporator from becoming a block of ice, and also prevents the compressor from operating at all if the refrigerant level is low.

Pro Tips are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.

Pro Tip: Systems with an expansion valve don’t need a low pressure cycling switch because the expansion valve works to prevent evaporator icing.

The clutch cycling switch or transducer changes internal resistance in response to changes in pressure. It measures the low side A/C pressure near the evaporate outlet.

In short, the switch controls the evaporator temperature above the freezing point by controlling the A/C compressor clutch.

Tips on How to Access the Clutch Cycling Switch

The clutch cycling switch comes in different forms. Some of them resemble a cylinder and bolt-like flash drive.

The switch is usually attached to the accumulator, which is a cylinder-shaped component under the hood. It’s typically between the evaporator outlet and the compression suction port.

If you’re planning to remove or replace the switch, disconnect the attached plug. Use a wrench to undo or loosen it first. Follow the same procedure but in reverse if you’re connecting the replacement piece or if you want to place the old one back in.