Jumping Relay To Start AC Compressor Clutch | How Does It Work? And Why You Shouldn't Use Paper Clip

In the previous video, young mechanic Aiman showed you how to jump start the AC compressor clutch in order to refill refrigerant in your car by bypassing the relay using a paper clip. Some people call this procedure jumping the low pressure switch. Watch that video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/lX7Mn4tphpepqNk
In this video, Aiman will explain in greater detail how the process works by using a hand-drawn diagram on a white board. He explains what a relay is, a simple crude way how to tell if the relay is bad, why vehicles use relay and how the car AC system works in general. Scroll down below for explanations of a relay.
To buy relay, R134a refrigerant & other AC components for your car, click here and search for the parts you want: amzn.to/3hs1lv6
If you opted to jump the AC relay, which is NOT strongly recommended because the potential damage this procedure could cause to your car such as PCM (power control module), short-circuiting climate control console, fuse system, relay board and more, we suggest using a small piece of insulated wire. The right way of course is to wire directly from a positive terminal battery to the compressor clutch.
Some other videos we've done on this topics are:
1) kzbin.info/www/bejne/jpymqp6geKuaoLM | How To Recharge Air Conditioning & Refill AC Refrigerant R134a In Your Car - Full DIY Tutorial
2) kzbin.info/www/bejne/j17XlWSGac6sgbM | How To Remove, Replace & Diagnose Stator Coil, Clutch & AC Compressor Bearing On Your Car
3) kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z520apqwa7Jlmac | How To Test Clutch On Your Car AC Compressor | Using Simple DIY Lead Wires, Multimeter & Power Probe
4) kzbin.info/www/bejne/nZWsqHirZ55rrsU | Grinding Squealing Noise | What Could It Be? AC Compressor Clutch, Pulleys Or Engine | Test Belt Off
WHAT IS A RELAY?
An automotive relay is an electronically operated switch. The type most commonly used in the automotive industry is an electro-mechanically operated switch. They are found in all types of vehicles - cars, trucks, vans, trailers and boats. They employ an electromagnet device to mechanically maneuver a switch to make or break an electrical circuit.
Relays are often used in circuits to reduce the current that flows through the primary control switch. A relatively low amperage switch, timer, or sensor can be used to turn a much higher capacity relay on and off. Another primary use for relays is when upgrading to halogen headlights on an older car.
The most common application of automotive relays is to switch a high current circuit using a low current circuit. This application comes into play whereby an in-line switch does not have the capacity to handle the current required to switch a high current electrical system.
A key advantage of using a relay is that it allows the activation of multiple circuits from a single switch. A single input within an electrical system can be used to activate and trigger multiple relays installed in an electrical circuit. These relays can then complete/ break multiple circuits and therefore execute multiple functions given a single input signal.
DIY recharging kits tell you to recharge through the low pressure port while the compressor is engaged. But if the system is low on refrigerant, the clutch will never engage. This is a catch 22.
How To Manually Engage AC Compressor Clutch
Proper Method: Unplug the single wire connector on the front side of the compressor. Take the fused jumper wire and connect its one end to that side of the wire connector that was connected to the compressor. Attach the other end of the jumper wire to the positive terminal of the battery. It will supply the battery voltage to the compressor clutch, allowing it to engage manually. There is no need to switch on the air conditioning system for this method to work.
Improper But Fast Method (see our previous video): The method shown in this video is for a 4-prong relay, but if you have a 5-prong relay, the method is still applicable, it's just that you might have to find the diagram for the relay. Be sure to jump the copper side, not the gold side. Using a paper clip is easier, simpler and more convenient but we suggest using an insulated wire in order to avoid potential fire hazard and short circuit. Don't leave it connected too long to try and recharge the system, you risk serious and even catastrophic compressor damage.
Even though the explanation is done on a 2010 Honda Civic, they should be similar to other Honda and Acura vehicles such as Accord, CRV, Element, Pilot, Odyssey and more, and perhaps not too different to other make and models, domestic and imports.
Thanks for watching...please watch our other DIY Auto Repair, fix-it ideas, diagnosis, step-by-step guide, tools review, tutorial, remove, replace & install videos on EyeOnAiman's youtube channel and Facebook page.
Recording Date: June 23, 2020
Video URL: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXPbp6mrhNmFnbs

[@EyeOnAiman]

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[@jaimeortega3368]

They ran a ground wire from the relay too car to keep clutch running how do I fix it

[@michaelbozenski6923]

Very detailed even when he said at the end supplying power to the compressor and added that it wasn't actually power to the compressor but the clutch on the compressor, which goes to show the guy is very knowledgeable and very descriptive and easy to follow unless you don't understand AC systems or electrical to the basics.

[@dennissytsma3561]

This man has an outstanding understanding of engineering and has an impressive body of work for such a young person. I am an old guy and have worked with some of the best engineers and inventors in the world. I would love to see a video that explains how the high pressure three wire sensor works on the 2007 Honda civic air conditioner. The approach taken to bypass the relay with a jumper is straight forward and I plan to do it myself soon on my vehicle. Thanks for all your hard work to help other people with your videos and Godspeed.

[@EyeOnAiman]

Thank you for a very uplifting comment. Perhaps it is one of the reasons why he was recently accepted to Harvard, Stanford, Yale, Duke and a few others for Class of 2026 undergraduate engineering program? Check out our future videos on which college he decide to enroll in the fall...

[@dennissytsma3561]

@@EyeOnAiman my oldest biological son now age 40 wanted to go to mit but was not accepted but got doctorate in aerospace engineering and my younger biological son now age 37 is working on his doctorate in aerospace engineering. Fun to be around people with so much potential

[@EyeOnAiman]

@@dennissytsma3561 That's incredible. You have been blessed. Our family has been blessed too. While I did not get accepted to MIT, my brother did and he is doing well. My oldest sister went to Stanford. Perhaps I will be the first in my family to attend Ivy League. We shall see...

[@poochee2010]

Very intelligent young man, and may God bless him, in ways that he and we need Amen.

[@dennissytsma3561]

I agree! God bless this young man. Brilliant engineer and will be an outstanding teacher.

[@SaraDavidson-zr6gw]

No need for your "click bait" sir. I was thoroughly impressed from the first paper-clip-jump technique video I watched. Thank you for these explanations!

[@shakenama]

Thank you!..... having issues with my compressor and never thought about direct connection to it. Thanks for the wire vs paperclip. Genius!

[@EyeOnAiman]

You're welcome, and thanks for watching...

[@michaelbozenski6923]

I actually watched The wire jumper prior to the paper clip but he does give a great explanation of how a relay works which is nice

[@JosephFryling]

bro you got me, but so relieved to still be able to use the paperclip! lol

[@genepizzo1509]

Your videos are not just technically expert they are also clever and entertaining showing that you are not just a good mechanic but a good presenter as well. You have a great head start in whatever career you eventually choose.

[@Lazydaze83]

Thanks! On my 2010 Odyssey the copper connectors were marked backwards from your diagram. The battery goes to the outside. Great video 👍🏼

[@thitran483]

Great video, and very well explained! Keep it going

[@ErnestoMorales-t8b]

Hi do you have any video for how to vacuum ac compressor on 2010 Honda insight? Thanks

[@schifoso]

So if your system had no coolant and you took it into a professional shop, would they jump the relay or connect 12V directly to the compressor? Or would they fill the system with enough refrigerant so that the pressure switch would indicate sufficient pressure for the PCM to send a clutch enable signal?

[@Fawaz-z1s]

Hi, do you guys know how long the paper clip should be attached for? Thanks

[@guitarTennisCarHomeFixFlying]

are you close to Greensboro NC? My 2000 Daewoo Nubira , the a/c compressor wont come on, I am going to try my 3rd used dash controller, I'd love for you to work on my car.

[@nashwanibrahim2348]

Thank you for you videos, very helpful especially they on Honda accord. why a compressor wolud not shut off. My Accord does not not get cold enough, checked the freon and compressor works fine but does not cool enough??. also can you make a video on how to replace or clean a clogged Ac condenser.. Thanks

[@bisayanibai6121]

Hi Aiman, I just want to ask if you encounter the whining noise from the steering pump?

[@Random.Adventures.]

can you use the probe to kick on the compressor similar to what a papper clip would do?

[@liil1il]

Very smart, and very informational. Haven't seen other of your vids but I would recommend you blurr out or hide your license plate, people can get personal information with it including your adress .

[@allisonreynolds8390]

Should I disconnect the battery prior to removing the clutch relay for my 2008 Honda Civic?

[@JosueGarcia-rz4rm]

Thank you so much buddy. This video gave me the solution.

[@wabbitslayer8491]

I jumped it with a paper clip and refilled it with Freon and bought a new relay but my clutch won’t stay engaged still ! Any insight ?

[@williamserver4332]

Great video. Very helpful

[@michaelrubio3611]

Hello, I saw your video many times about how to engage the clutch bypassing the relay with a paperclip or a coated wire. I understand all that, but can you help me locate which relay I have to bypass in a 2010 nissan sentra? I see where the fuse is at, but im not sure which relay I have to put the wire in? Thank you in advance!! You're excellent in your details.

[@mikehudson5036]

Great video, and very well explained!

[@Bailynagy]

2008 civic had the system recharged, changed the relay, and checked fuse. Compressor clutch still not engaging. I don’t know how to check the pressure switch. Any advice? Thanks.

[@zerodegrekelvin2]

Great video! Funny thing is you look like a version of "me" but much younger LOL, good job explaining. Which part of CT you are from? my uncle is from Southington .

[@mrbreezeet1]

You're a smart young fellow.

[@DarienDrakee]

I need some outside opinions. My AC isn’t working and it never had since I had the car, so I started with the basic stuff pressure testing making sure there were no leaks, replacing o rings. Making sure the clutch was functioning and replacing the drier and whatever that switch is on it (I can’t remember the name, but the other one was damaged). I tested the relays with a multi metre and they appeared to be working. I recharged the system, put the paper clip in and it all immediately started working (my ac button was able to control it when I turned it on and off). Does all the lead to bad relays even though they tested fine on the multi metre ? Obviously I can’t just jam a paper clip in there and leave it because that’s not how the AC is supposed to work, It needs to cycle on and off.

[@jimhester3465]

Aiman, please show which holes you put the jumper wire into. I have no clue which two get the wire.

[@frankzambrini8861]

Hey thanks i used one of your videos to fix a issue with my hiseeu camera system ..i had a error message that said ipc disconnect but end up deleting the camera but i saw how you paired the cameras.i didn't need to use a cable but with your derection i as able to pair it again .. thanks

[@aandd10]

Very nice video.. thanks

[@glennhaman6222]

I used an insulated jumper to turn on the compressor. I shorted out the AC pressure switch and the Evaporator temperature sensor but still does not turn on compressor. The AC switch wire measures 12vdc and goes to ground when turned on but measured nothing at the AC pressure wire. Is there something I am overlooking?

[@shenray337]

What’s that tool call you have used it on the 5:56 in the video? Thx

[@douglasjuarezjr.4097]

So where do I put the wires ? First wire to the last big plug? So first top metal to 2nd parallel metal?

[@justinnewell2595]

Hey I’m a really big fan, I have a 07 Prius. Would it be possible for you to do a video of changing fuel injectors? My engine keeps misfiring and I would love to have your expertise, you haven’t failed me yet!!

[@YoungHKim-dk3rg]

doubt injectors are causing the misfire. Did you try swapping the injectors from other cylinders? I wouldn't just throw parts at it until you diagnose properly. Go watch Scotty Kilmer's video

[@gurpreetsinghluthra1927]

Can you tell me where the relay is for escalade 2016 pleasssssss

[@SaraDavidson-zr6gw]

MANDARK!!!!!!!! I FOUND YOUU!!!

[@jvst20051]

Link the video whete u add freon to the car please

[@chrisbird2683]

My ac system is completly removed,can I jump the high and low pressure ac sensor to turn on the radiator fan?

[@anonyme0897]

If everything else is working in the a/c system, the compressor will turn on automatically after you begin to charge an empty system. But please repair the leak before you fill because R134a is a disaster when released in the environment! I use propane or R12A (propane, isobutane).

[@dustinbanneddotvideo2082]

Really!!!???

[@Danilo111]

Great explanation but you are missing the fuse from the battery

[@rjaypantojan1508]

Hi aiman i need some help on my 2006 civic and i want to know what kind of a clips that are inserted on the engine bay side panel that attached to the left and right fender of the car and pls can you give me the measurements on thos clips they are also called christmas tree clips.. i hope u could help me thanks and more power to you and your channel

[@yashpalsinhzala4345]

Very good thank sir 👌👌👌👌👍🙏🏻

[@MrCharlesoung]

Does it matter what kind of wire to use?

[@EyeOnAiman]

It doesn't matter, any type of strand wires should work as long as they conduct electricity....

[@celerinovilla7067]

How do you check a 2 prong fuse

[@sar9907]

Had some issues with my suv air conditioning. blowing warm air. My question is when adding freon. Does the clutch has to be engaged consistently while filling the system or it should intermittent on and off? Thank you.

[@EyeOnAiman]

Technically the clutch has to be engaged constantly when filling so that the refrigerant from the can will get sucked it. It's ok to be intermittent but it may take upward of 15 minutes to fill. We're really not AC expert so take this respond with a grain of salt. Thanks for watching...

[@sar9907]

@@EyeOnAiman thanks for the clarification. Keep up the good work.

[@leog6742]

Do you know where the camshaft sensor is located in a honday hybrid 2007 ? Thanks 😊

[@robbflynn4325]

Tried all of this but compressor still won't engage. I know there is power going to the compressor because it was tested by HVAC guy but thought maybe a lack of refrigerant was causing the clutch not to engage but obviously not. Will worry about it next year now the weather is colder.

[@alonsoalonso994]

Did you ever find the issue. I have bypassed the relay but the ac clutch still won’t engage. Is the compressor just bad and need replaced?

[@robbflynn4325]

@@alonsoalonso994 hi. Bought a replacement Denso compressor for $200. There was no refrigerant in the system. Got a cheap vacuum pump and gauges and charged. Been working well ever since. Compressor tough to remove because lower bolts are in a tight spot so be very careful not to strip them.

[@alonsoalonso994]

@@robbflynn4325 thank you! Just bought a replacement compressor and did you have to add compressor oil before installing the denso?

[@robbflynn4325]

@@alonsoalonso994 no, the Denso one came pre oiled.

[@fatinadoris6915]

Top

[@kotinmyohlaing]

Thz ☺️☺️

[@nanznanz5436]

slm aiman..ada wassap dak?..sya dri penang..ada bnda nk mintak tolong beli dri sana..lisle harmonic balancer socket for honda crank bolt nut..sbb kat amazon mahal sgt.

[@davidreynolds4684]

Dont forget the low pressure sensor.

[@srk3violin302]

How old are you?

[@davidreynolds4684]

You could save yourself a bunch of time by saying if you are going to jump terminals using an uninsulated piece of conductive material make sure you know the two terminals locations and dont have your head up your ass when doing it. Hard to see what youre doing when ones head is up ones ass. Youre thorough and from what ive seen pretty knowledgeable for a young kid. If this is what you have planned out for your future good luck to you. You might prepare yourself for the reality that upu prob wont date much.

[@KingCobra1968]

So if this is bad, why did you show us the paper clip video in the first place??

[@EyeOnAiman]

Paper clip is convenient and usually readily available. Insulated wires sometimes are hard to come by.

[@KingCobra1968]

@@EyeOnAiman Fair enough. By the way I have the same car! Honda Civic with same dash. Mine is manual coupe 2007. What year is yours? My engine bay looks like yours.

[@Tootallfordoorways]

I just don't understand why my ac compressor won't engage unless I use a wire or paperclip

[@mattf2535]

Wtf stop moving back n forth, can't even understand the diagram with you moving the view around

[@jerf5038]

Damn chill

[@EyeOnAiman]

Thank you for your feedback and taking the time to write. We will try to do better next time, and instruct the cameraman not to move the camera around too much when dealing with diagram.

[@jamespaligutan1084]

Dont watch if you dont like it!!!

[@schifoso]

@@EyeOnAiman Sure - blame it on the cameraman... ;-)