The clutch on the A/C compressor in my car engages for about five seconds, then disengages for five seconds over and over. Here's what's weird though - it happens whenever the car is running, even with all of the climate controls OFF!
Why is it doing this? (any ideas)

Just so you know, I don't know how well the A/C works as the temperatures have been in the 30's and below since I purchased the car.

 

Has no one else experienced this?

 

It is probably something in the switch/climate control device. I see you are in PA. If the a/c needs to stay off, for now unplug the clutch electrical connector until you can isolate the problem, I've not had that issue.

 

I don't know anything about automatic climate controls, but know some kick on and off when the defroster is on ----- when you are blowing air on to windshield. Can you change the setting to have air come out of dash vents only ----- is there a change when you do that.
The reason why it may kick on is to keep humidity down when air blowing is set to defrost is on.

 

Does it do it with the engine off but ignition on? If something was screwed up somewhere it should still try and cycle the compressor, you would just hear click...click...click...e.t.c. Also if your using the defrost selection there is a good chance the AC will kick on anyways in this mode to dehumidify the air so it defogs faster. Now just to clarify, when you say "off" you mean completely shut off nothing on correct? Not just the fan off but the selector on.

 

Engine off, ignition on - no clicks

"Off" = fan selector off, A/C button off, recirc button off. As for the selector there is no true off position; I can select floor, dash, vent and all in-between, but there is no position for off on this switch.

 

I just happened to come across another thread (seemingly unrelated to the A/C compressor), and saw that others have noticed this, and that it annoys other people besides me!

https://www.mazdaforum.com/forum/maz...on-idle-28156/