* Excessive Load: A seized or severely damaged AC compressor can put an extreme strain on the engine's belt system. This added load could cause the serpentine belt to break or slip, which would then disable the engine's operation by preventing the alternator (providing power) and other essential components from functioning.
* Overheating: The added stress from a failing compressor could also cause the engine to overheat, triggering safety mechanisms that shut down the engine to prevent damage. This is less common than a belt issue.
* Electrical Issues (Rare): In rare cases, a failing compressor might create an electrical short that triggers a safety shutdown mechanism within the engine's computer system. This is far less probable than mechanical issues.
In short, a bad AC compressor is not directly responsible for engine shutdown in most cases, but the *consequences* of its failure – belt breakage or overheating – *can* cause the engine to shut off. It's important to diagnose the root cause rather than assuming the compressor is the sole culprit.
