A/C - Odor Correction
NO.: TSB-93-55-001DATE: June, 1993
MODEL: All with A/C
SUBJECT:
AIR CONDITIONER ODOR
PURPOSE
This bulletin explains the cause and correction of an A/C system odor which may be present in some A/C systems.
VEHICLES AFFECTED
All vehicles with A/C may be affected by this condition.
CAUSE
The A/C odor is created when condensation forms in and around the A/C evaporator (a normal occurrence during A/C operation). Eventually, the condensation mixes with airborne pollutants to form growths of bacteria and/or fungi.
When the ventilation blower fan is switched on, the bacterial and fungal growths may release an unpleasant "musty" odor into the passenger compartment. This condition is usually more noticeable in regions of the country that experience high levels of heat and humidity.
CORRECTION
To remove A/C odors of this type, it is necessary to kill the bacterial and fungal growths and prevent their reoccurrence. A safe, effective product is available for this purpose.
Mitsubishi Air Conditioner Treatment is a non-toxic, liquid biocide. When correctly applied, the treatment kills bacterial and fungal growths inside the A/C, leaving a protective film that prevents future growths for at least one year.
On most Mitsubishi Motor Sales of America vehicles, the air conditioner treatment is installed into the A/C evaporator area through the fresh air inlet. This is done using shop air, an air gun, and the product's applicator nozzle. On some vehicles, a long, plastic adaptor is also needed. Complete instructions for installing the product are shown in the Mitsubishi Air Conditioner Treatment video and instruction sheet.
NOTE:
The 8 mm video tape (Number 51 in the Triple Diamond Communication System) and instruction sheet have been supplied to your dealer along with a copy of this bulletin.
During the product introduction period (the first 60 days of availability), each case of Mitsubishi Air Conditioner Treatment will be shipped with a Nozzle/Adaptor Kit. After the 60-day introductory period, extra nozzles can be obtained by ordering a Nozzle/Adaptor Kit. Refer to the Parts Information section of this bulletin for ordering information.
To correctly install the product, follow the video and/or instruction sheet exactly. The procedure takes about one hour, however, only about 30 minutes of actual "labor" is involved. Most of the hour will be spent away from the vehicle, allowing time for the evaporator to dry and the product to cure.
With the exception of the Van/Wagon, only one bottle of Mitsubishi Air Conditioner Treatment is needed per vehicle. When used on the dual-A/C system found on the Van/Wagon, two bottles are needed; one for the front evaporator and one for the rear evaporator. Additional bottles used for the same vehicle (due to incorrect installation) are not covered under warranty.
PARTS INFORMATION
Mitsubishi Air Conditioner Treatment is sold only by the case. Each case contains 12 bottles. During the product's 60-day introductory period, a Nozzle/Adaptor Kit is supplied with each case. The Mitsubishi Part number for a 12-bottle case is A993ZC1X01. The part number for the Nozzle/Adaptor Kit is A993ZC1X02. As of this bulletin's printing date, dealer cost was $294 for the 12-bottle case, and $22 for the Nozzle/Adaptor Kit.
For immediate drop shipment, order the Mitsubishi Air Conditioner Treatment and/or Nozzle/Adaptor Kit from your facing PDC on a stock or daily order.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
To submit for warranty reimbursement, the following criteria MUST be observed:
1. Warranty reimbursement may only be claimed for vehicles within the "basic" new vehicle limited warranty period (36 months or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first). All other A/C odor treatment procedures are "customer pay".
2. The procedure should only be performed when a customer complains of an A/C odor.
3. Only one bottle of Mitsubishi Air Conditioner Treatment and one installation procedure can be claimed per vehicle. For Van/Wagons still under warranty, two bottles per vehicle may be claimed.
4. Submit a "W" claim using the following information:
Position Code: 551511 Labor Operation Code: ACTREAT
Nature Code: 99D Cause Code: 990
Time Allowance for All Except Dual A/C: 0.7 hrs. (Reimbursable only if vehicle is still within the "basic" new vehicle limited warranty period.)
Time Allowance for Van/Wagons equipped with Dual A/C: 1.0 hrs. (Reimbursable only if vehicle is still within the "basic" new vehicle limited warranty period.)