Repair Information
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2017 Chevrolet Spark. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- For vehicles with R1234yf a gas analysis is mandatory before evacuating the system.
- Keep refrigerant bottles away from direct heat (such as an incident solar radiation) and avoid temperatures in excess of 50°C (122°F) - risk of explosion.
- The refrigerant bottle has to be stored tightly closed in a cool, well ventilated place and must be prevented from tipping.
- When filling refrigerant bottles, the specifications on the individual bottles concerning maximum permissible weight must be observed. Otherwise there is a danger of explosion.
- Always reseal refillable refrigerant bottles immediately when not in use. Seal the cut-off valve and safety plug with a screw cap to protect these parts from damage - danger of injury.
- Do not point quick-release mechanism in direction of YOUR body when removing service hoses - residual refrigerant may emerge.
- When cleaning the engine compartment using a high pressure / steam cleaner, do not direct the jet directly onto air conditioning system components.
- The air conditioning system must be evacuated before carrying out painting work during which the vehicle is present in the drying oven for more than 20 minutes at temperatures exceeding 80°C (176°F).
- PAG / POE (polyalkylenglykolen / polyolester) oil (compressor lubricant) is extremely hygroscopic and must be stored in an air-sealed container.
- It is not permitted to re-use compressor lubricant.
- When replacing components of the refrigerant circuit, such as lines, receiver-dryer, evaporator or compressor, the separation points must be sealed in order to prevent moisture entering the refrigerant circuit.
- A completely or partially assembled system must not be left unconnected for any longer than is absolutely necessary.
- When testing the function of heating, ventilation and A/C systems, never reach into the mechanical components of the heating or A/C system.
- The basic setting of the expansion valve must not be changed.
- Repairs to the air conditioning have to be performed immediately after evacuation, as otherwise refrigerant in the system can evaporate causing a build-up of pressure - danger of injury.
- In order to equalize temperatures and prevent moisture from condensing, the A/C components must be at room temperature before installation.
- Only remove sealing caps (plugs) immediately before connecting the fitted parts. Keep the sealing caps of new parts for use in later maintenance operations.
- When replacing components of the refrigerant circuit (such as lines, receiver dehydrator, evaporator) the compressor lubricant remaining in the removed component must be replaced by new compressor lubricant when refilling the refrigerant circuit.
- Connections with missing catches and parts that have been penetrated by dirt, grease or dampness must not be installed. Only install pipes, hoses and units if the connections are in perfect condition.
- The dryer (cleaner/filter of the air conditioning) in the refrigerant circuit is enriched with moisture and must be replaced in accordance with repair instructions. When replacing the dryer cartridge, high pressure in the dryer housing was present in individual cases, despite previous evacuation of the system. When opened, the pressure was suddenly released and the dryer cartridge was ejected. Therefor a face shield must be worn when opening the dryer housing instead of goggles. Do NOT lean directly over the opening of the dryer housing when opening. Special caution is advised for systems, whose cover is held with a retaining ring.
- Use new O-rings.
- When using green O-rings: coat all O-rings with the oil that is specified in the service information before assembling.
- Compressor connections must be sealed immediately after removal of the compressor. In warranty cases, returned compressors which have not been sealed cannot be accepted.
- Only use vehicle-specific synthetic compressor lubricants approved by GM - otherwise, damage to the compressor may result.
- When replacing the compressor, mind the oil calibrating procedure
- The receiver-dryer must not be connected until all other parts of the system have been connected.
- For depressurized refrigerant lines / systems, it is essential that the receiver-dryer cartridge is replaced.