The clutch gap,loss of refrigerant and electrical switches could be the problem. air compressors operate as long as the pressure of the R-134a is high enough otherwise damage to the compessor can be done. If the AC system is charged turn it on and watch to see if the clutch engages, if it comes on the goes off then on, off then on, there is aleak in one of lines; letting the pressure drop below opperational allowance.
What specific kind of vehicle do you have? It does sound like the clutch may be bad, but we also need to know what you are working on. You need to run power straight from the battery to the compressor. If is still does not engage then you need to replace the compressor and clutch, they are dead. If they do engage, then you have a wiring or computer issue.
bad clutch cable, or not enough oil on the clutch plates.
BAD clutch slave cylinder, wore out clutch and pressure plate.
There is no hydraulic fluid in the transmission. However, there is hydraulic fluid in the clutch system. If the clutch fluid reservoir is empty it would cause clutch not to operate.
Most likely, your air conditioning compressor is cooked or its pulley clutch has seized. Hopefully it was the pulley, because the compressor is not cheap.
If the system has a full charge then the thermister is most likely the cause for it not working.
First, the clutch won't engage if the refrigerant level is low. Start there. Next, check the sensor at the receiver/dryer.
Bad or worn friction disc, faulty clutch fork, faulty throwout bearing, clutch out of adjustment... pick your poison.
cause your stupid
sounds like you have a worn out clutch.
If the AC in your 2003 Saturn Ion won't engage, first check the fuse related to the AC system, as a blown fuse can prevent it from operating. Additionally, inspect the AC clutch and ensure it's receiving power; if not, the issue might be with the AC relay or the control switch. Lastly, low refrigerant levels can also cause the system to fail to engage, so consider checking for leaks and recharging the refrigerant if necessary. If these steps don't resolve the issue, consulting a professional mechanic may be necessary.
could be several things. the signal comes from the switch on your dash and follows wiring to a relay and more wiring to the clutch. you are bypassing all of that when "jumping" the clutch. if it works when jumped the clutch is good. get a test light and check the wiring to the clutch. good luck....a/c wiring sucks