A/C Condenser Replacement

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Acura MDX, 2005 Acura MDX, 2004 Acura MDX, and 2003 Acura MDX. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Recover the refrigerant with a recovery/recycling/charging station (see REFRIGERANT RECOVERY ).
Remove the front bulkhead cover (see FRONT BULKHEAD COVER REPLACEMENT ) and the hood latch (see HOOD RELEASE HANDLE REPLACEMENT ).
Remove the clips (A), then remove the bolts and the radiator upper mount brackets (B).

Fig 1: Removing Bolts And Radiator Upper Mount Brackets
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Remove the bolts, then disconnect the discharge line (A) and receiver line (B) from the A/C condenser. Plug or cap the lines immediately after disconnecting them to avoid moisture and dust contamination.

Fig 2: Disconnecting Discharge Line And Receiver Line From A/C Condenser
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Remove the bolts, then 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.

Fig 3: Removing A/C Condenser
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
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) (see A/C SERVICE TIPS AND PRECAUTIONS ).
- 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 (see SYSTEM CHARGING ).