Relay-A/C Clutch: Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Dodge Magnum, 2006 Dodge Charger, and 2006 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The ISO-standard A/C clutch micro-relay is an electromechanical switch that uses a low current input controlled by the powertrain control module (PCM) to control the high current output to the A/C clutch field coil. The movable, common feed relay contact is held against the fixed, normally closed relay contact by spring pressure. When the electromagnetic relay coil is energized, it draws the movable common feed relay contact away from the fixed, normally closed relay contact and, holds it against the fixed, normally open relay contact. This action allows high current to flow to the A/C clutch field coil.

When the relay coil is de-energized, spring pressure returns the movable relay contact back against the fixed, normally closed contact point. The resistor or diode is connected in parallel with the relay coil, and helps to dissipate voltage spikes and electromagnetic interference that can be generated as the electromagnetic field of the relay coil collapses.

The A/C clutch relay terminals are connected to the vehicle electrical system through a receptacle in the integrated power module (IPM). The inputs and outputs of the A/C clutch relay include:

The common feed terminal (30) receives fused battery current at all times.
The coil ground terminal (85) receives a ground through the A/C clutch relay control circuit only when the PCM electronically pulls the circuit to ground.
The coil battery terminal (86) receives fused battery current through a fused ignition switch output (run-start) circuit only when the ignition switch is in the On or Start positions.
The normally open terminal (87) provides battery current to the A/C clutch coil through the A/C clutch relay output circuit only when the A/C clutch relay coil is energized.
The normally closed terminal (87A) is not connected to any circuit in this application, but provides a battery current output only when the A/C clutch relay coil is de-energized.

The A/C clutch relay cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced. Refer to the appropriate wiring information for diagnosis and testing of the ISO-standard micro-relay and for complete HVAC wiring diagrams.