Condenser HVAC: Service and Repair

2013 Chevrolet Impala V6-3.6LSECTION Service and Repair



Air Conditioning Condenser Replacement

Special Tools

J 39400-A - Halogen Leak Detector

Removal Procedure

1. Recover the refrigerant. Refer to Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging.

2. Remove the radiator. Refer to Radiator Replacement Radiator Replacement.





3. Remove the A/C line coupling from the condenser tube to evaporator tube. Refer to Air Conditioning Line/Tube Connector Removal/Replacement Air Conditioning Line/Tube Connector Removal/Replacement.





4. Remove the A/C compressor line nut from the condenser and position the A/C compressor line aside.

5. Remove the condenser from the vehicle.

6. Remove and discard the O-ring seals and seal washer.

Installation Procedure

1. If replacing the condenser, add refrigerant oil to the condenser. Refer to Refrigerant System Specifications Specifications for system capacity information.

2. Install the condenser to the vehicle.

3. Install a new seal washer onto the A/C compressor hose. Refer to Air Conditioning System Seal Replacement Air Conditioning System Seal Replacement.

4. Install new O-ring seals onto the evaporator tube. Refer to Air Conditioning O-Ring Seal Replacement Air Conditioning O-Ring Seal Replacement.

5. Install the radiator. Refer to Radiator Replacement Radiator Replacement.





6. Install the evaporator tube to the condenser.

7. Install the A/C line coupling to the evaporator tube and condenser tube. Refer to Air Conditioning Line/Tube Connector Removal/Replacement Air Conditioning Line/Tube Connector Removal/Replacement.





8. Install the A/C compressor hose to the condenser.

Caution:
Refer to Fastener Caution Fastener Caution.

Note:
Use a 20 mm wrench or pliers to hold the A/C condenser block fitting, this will prevent the A/C line from twisting while torquing the A/C line nut.

9. Install the A/C compressor hose block fitting nut to the condenser and tighten to 17 Nm (12.5 lb ft).

10. Evacuate and recharge the A/C system. Refer to Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging.

11. Leak test the fittings of the component using J 39400-A - Halogen Leak Detector.

RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.