Condenser HVAC: Service and Repair

A/C Condenser Replacement

1. Make sure you have the anti-theft code for the audio and the navigation system, then write down the audio presets.
2. Recover the refrigerant with a recovery/recycling charging station.
3. Remove the front bulkhead cover.
4. Remove the battery and the battery box.




5. Remove the clips (A), then remove the air intake cover (B) and the air intake tube or duct (C).




6. Remove the A/C compressor clutch connector (A) from the A/C condenser fan shroud (B). Disconnect the A/C condenser fan connector (C), then remove the wire harness clip (D) from the A/C condenser fan shroud. Remove the hose (E) from the radiator. Loosen the lower mounting bolt, then remove the upper mounting bolts and the A/C condenser fan shroud. Be careful not to damage the radiator fins when removing the A/C condenser fan shroud.




7. Remove the bolts and the radiator upper mount brackets.




8. Remove the bolt, then disconnect the receiver line (A) from the A/C condenser. Disconnect the A/C pressure switch connector (B).




9. Remove the bolts from the A/C condenser.




10. Remove the nut, then disconnect the discharge line from the A/C condenser.




11. Remove the A/C condenser by lifting it up. Be careful not to damage the radiator and A/C condenser fins when removing the A/C condenser.
12. Install the A/C condenser in the reverse order of removal, and note these items:
- If you're installing a new A/C condenser, add refrigerant oil (DENSO ND-OIL 8).
- Replace the O-rings with new ones at each fitting, and apply a thin coat of refrigerant oil before installing them. Be sure to use the correct O-rings for HFC-134a (R-134a) to avoid leakage.
- Immediately after using the oil, reinstall the cap on the container, and seal it to avoid moisture absorption.
- Do not spill the refrigerant oil on the vehicle; it may damage the paint; if the refrigerant oil contacts the paint, wash it off immediately.
- Be careful not to damage the radiator or the A/C condenser fins when installing the A/C condenser.
- Charge the system.
- Reset the power window control unit.
- Enter the anti-theft codes for the audio and the navigation system, then enter the audio presets.