Receiver/Drier Cartridge
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Mercury Milan, 2011 Lincoln MKZ, and 2011 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
Installation of a new receiver/drier cartridge is not required when repairing the A/C system, except when there is physical evidence of contamination from a failed A/C compressor or damage to the receiver/drier cartridge. Damage to the receiver/drier cartridge includes physical damage or moisture contamination. Moisture contamination results only from a complete loss of refrigerant, and equalization of the refrigerant system pressure with atmospheric pressure for a period longer than one hour. If even a slight amount of positive refrigerant pressure is present in the refrigerant system before repairs are carried out, the receiver/drier cartridge does not need to be replaced.
The receiver/drier is integral to the A/C condenser. It stores high-pressure liquid after it leaves the condenser core. A receiver/drier (desiccant) cartridge mounted inside the receiver/drier removes any retained moisture from the refrigerant. The receiver/drier cartridge is a separate component and can be removed and installed separately from the A/C condenser.