A/C Evaporator: Description
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The A/C evaporator is located in the HVAC housing, behind the instrument panel. The evaporator is positioned in the HVAC housing so that all air that enters the housing must pass over the fins of the evaporator coils before it is distributed through the system ducts and outlets. However, air passing over the evaporator fins will only be conditioned when the compressor is engaged and circulating refrigerant through the evaporator tubes.