My AC system is cooling OK, but the single "click" noise I hear when the AC system is cycling on (or is it off?) has gotten louder. I can now hear it from inside the cabin when driving, even on the freeway. I don't recall it being that loud. Is this something that I should get checked out at the repair shop?

Is the click I hear the compressor clutch?
Does the air conditioning system require regular preventative maintenance?

 

The clutch gap may be increasing due to wear. This isn't a big concern though you could take some shims out and see if it gets any quieter. Some cars are just louder anyway. The only PM on the A/C system is the belt, and keep the condenser clean of bugs, etc. As a general rule if you're getting cold air leave things alone.

 

Thanks for saving me $$, mk378. My family has two 6th gen Civics of similar mileage (120K +/- 10K). The '98 LX recently had to have a compressor, condenser, and evaporator replaced. That's why I was concerned about the '96 DX. Some repair shops around here (southern CA) claim you should bring in your car for annual AC check up.