* Belt Damage: The locked compressor will put immense strain on the serpentine belt, causing it to squeal, fray, and eventually break. This can lead to other components being damaged (alternator, power steering pump, etc.). A broken belt will leave you stranded.
* Compressor Damage: Forcing a locked compressor to turn can severely damage internal components, potentially causing irreparable harm and spreading metal debris throughout the AC system.
* Pulley Damage: The compressor pulley itself might be seized, further compounding the issue and making belt routing hazardous.
The only safe solution is to:
1. Remove the serpentine belt: This stops the immediate damage to the belt. This requires a wrench and knowledge of how to correctly route the belt back on after the compressor is dealt with.
2. Replace the AC compressor: This is the proper fix. A locked-up compressor indicates a serious internal failure (likely a seized piston or bearing). Ignoring it will only result in more costly repairs down the road.
Trying to rig a bypass is a temporary fix that will lead to more extensive and expensive problems. The cost of a replacement compressor and installation is far less than the potential damage caused by driving with a seized compressor. Get the compressor replaced as soon as possible to protect your vehicle and your safety.
