Why does my car make a rattling noise when i turn on the air condition?

Question

I have a 2000 chevy malibu and when the air conditioner is on it makes a rattling sound, but when I turn it off it goes away. Can anyone help me?

Answer 1

The noise your hearing is prob, the piston  going up and down inside the compressor housing. If it is a rotor type compressor they also make a rattling sound. Have it checked to make sure it has enough oil in it.  

Answer 2

the air conditioner problem might be the a.c compressor

Answer 3

It is your ac compressor. Probably needs oil to lube the internal parts might be going bad soon and need to be replace soon.

Answer 4

Sound like a compressor problem. If the sound comes from under the bonnet at the front of the engine (drive belt area) then, almost certainly, its your compressor.

Answer 5

There might be a leaf or something stuck in the interior air intake by the windshield