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A/C Compressor Replacement

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Acura MDX, 2008 Acura MDX, and 2007 Acura MDX. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: Do not install the A/C compressor into a system unless you are completely sure that the system is free of contamination. Installing the A/C compressor into a contaminated system can result in premature A/C compressor failure.
  1. If the A/C compressor is marginally operable, run the engine at idle speed, and let the air conditioning work for a few minutes, then shut the engine off.
  2. Recover the refrigerant with a recovery/recycling/ charging station (see REFRIGERANT RECOVERY  ).
  3. Remove the drive belt (see DRIVE BELT INSPECTION ).
  4. Remove the front splash shield (see SPLASH SHIELD REPLACEMENT ).
  5. Remove the front undercover (see FRONT UNDERCOVER REPLACEMENT ).
  6. Support the front subframe with the engine support. Remove the bolts and the front subframe stiffener (A).
    NOTE: Install the new front subframe mounting bolt(B).
    Fig 1: Front Subframe Stiffener And Mounting Bolts With Torque Specifications
    G05487733Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  7. Disconnect the A/C compressor clutch connector (A). Remove the bolts and the nut, then disconnect the suction hose (B) and discharge hose (C) from the A/C compressor. Plug or cap the lines immediately after disconnecting them to avoid moisture and dust contamination.
    Fig 2: A/C Compressor Clutch Connector, Suction Hose And Discharge Hose With Torque Specification
    G05487734Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  8. Remove the mounting bolts and the A/C compressor (A). Be careful not to damage the radiator fins when removing the compressor.
    Fig 3: Mounting Bolts And A/C Compressor With Torque Specification
    G05487735Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  9. Install the A/C compressor in the reverse order of removal, and note these items:
    • Inspect the A/C lines for any signs of contamination.
    • If you're installing a new A/C compressor, you must calculate the amount of refrigerant oil to be removed from it (see A/C REFRIGERANT OIL REPLACEMENT  ). A new A/C compressor comes with a full charge of oil.
    • 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.
    • Use refrigerant oil (DENSO ND-OIL 8) for HFC-134a DENSO piston type A/C compressor only.
    • To avoid contamination, do not return the oil to the container once dispensed, and never mix it with other refrigerant oils.
    • 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 fins when installing the compressor and the A/C condenser fan shroud.
    • Charge the system (see SYSTEM CHARGING  ).
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