Can I drive with a broken AC?

Yes — a broken AC is a comfort problem, not a safety problem. You can drive as long as you want. Two caveats: (1) if the AC compressor is seized (grinding noise, or a smoking serpentine belt), don't drive it — the compressor pulley can lock the belt and take out your power steering, alternator, and water pump with it. (2) In humid weather, running the defrost also runs the AC on most cars — a dead AC can leave you with a fogged windshield, which is a safety issue. Get it looked at, but no hurry unless the compressor is making noise.

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