I went to turn on the defroster the other day, and smoke (not steam or antifreeze) started pouring out the defroster vents. I read that it could be an issue with the AC compressor, but not sure what to check (or how to check it).

Any help/thoughts/suggestions would be appreciated. This is a car my son bought and we have been working on it (and learning) together. I am by no means a mechanic, but cash is tight and we are trying to learn (he is 15 and will be well served to learn).

A defroster in CT is essential (heat doesn't suck either).

 

smoke out the vents likely came from something "cooking off"the blower resistor-especially if car hasn't been used in years or from the blower motor if it is stiff and getting hot or brushes are worn down and arcing.

 

Is there anything I can do, or does it have to run its course?

 

the resistor can be taken out and checked for debris(a fire could start if there are leaves or a mouse nest against the resistor)The blower motor can be replaced if it is the source of the smoke.

 

Right on the mark, pulled the resistor and there was junk on it (yup, now I get to figure out of the mouse house is bigger/worse than I thought). No smoke now though. The fan/blower must be weak because I don't get much air out of the defroster, guess I will have to check the blower motor. Thanks for your help, really appreciate it.