Thermal Limiting Fuse: Description and Operation

A thermal limiter switch is used on A/C compressor in vehicles equipped with the 2.0L engine and the 2.4L Turbo engine. The thermal limiter switch measures A/C compressor surface temperature. If the compressor surface temperature rises above a predetermined range, the thermal limiter switch cuts the battery feed to the A/C clutch field coil to prevent damage to the A/C compressor. The thermal limiter switch will reset once the compressor temperature returns to safe operating temperatures.

The thermal limiter switch interrupts battery feed to the A/C clutch field coil when temperatures reach above 122 - 128° C (250 - 260° F). The switch restores clutch field coil battery feed when the temperature drops to below 104 - 116° C (220 - 240° F).

The thermal limiter switch cannot be adjusted or repaired and , if faulty or damaged, the A/C compressor must be replaced.