Very faint whining noise when AC is on - 2009 pilot

[redrider]

Hey guys, ive searched over the forum but havent ran across anyone with this issue.

This is only an issue 50% of the time, basically when ever the AC is on i can hear a light/faint whining noise, which kind of sounds like a bad ball bearing. Soon as i turn off the AC the sound goes away, then comes back when i turn the ac on. This is an EXL model with the dual climate control and the noise is only present about 50% of the time.

Anyone have ideas as to what this could be?

Thanks in advance for the help!

[rocky]

With the AC operating perhaps 50% of the time its switched on, sounds like there is a potential problem in the compressor clutch/bearing.

[redrider]

sorry for the confusion, the AC always works when its on, it just makes the noise 50% of the time

[moda_way]

Check your PS fluid. I hear the similar noise of the PS rack struggling and low fluid, but I don't see any leakage anywhere. I've already filled it once, 4 months ago and it needs it again.