Kia Sportage: Air conditioning System / Compressor Description and operation

The compressor is the drive unit of the A/C system.

Located on the side of the engine block, it is driven by the V-belt of the engine.

The compressor changes low pressure and low temperature refrigerant gas into high pressure and high temperature refrigerant gas.

Variable Swash Plate Compressor

The compressor has a rotating swash plate that reciprocates the pistons to compress refrigerant.

The variable swash plate compressor controls the swash plate angle to change the refrigerant displacement. It achieves precise cooling capability control in accordance with vehicle interior and driving conditions.

The internally controlled variable swash plate compressor changes the swash plate angle by the MCV (Mechanical Control Valve) in accordance with fluctuation of a suction pressure.

The externally controlled variable swash plate compressor changes the swash plate angle by the ECV (Electric Control Valve) in accordance with an electrical signal from the heater & A/C control unit.

This enables stable temperature control and improved driving sensation.

ECV Control Diagram

Compressor Components and components location

Component Location 1. Compressor Components [THETA Engine] 1. Clutch Bolt 2. Limiter Bolt 3. Limiter &am ...

Compressor Repair procedures

Removal 1. If the compressor is marginally operable, run the engine at idle speed, and let the air conditioning work for a few minutes, then shut the engine ...

Other information:

Kia Sportage QL (2015-2026) Owners Manual: Rear window defroster

The defroster heats the window to remove frost, fog and thin ice from the rear window, while the engine is running. To activate the rear window defroster, press the rear window defroster button located in the center facia switch panel. The indicator on the rear window defroster button illum ...

Kia Sportage QL (2015-2026) Owners Manual: Lighting control

The light switch has a Headlight and a Parking light position. To operate the lights, turn the knob at the end of the control lever to one of the following positions: (1) OFF position (2) Auto light position (if equipped) (3) Parking & Tail light (4) Headlight position Parking & Ta ...