A/C System Leak Tests

WARNING: Review service precautions before leak testing the system.

If the air conditioning system is not cooling properly, determine if the refrigerant system is fully- charged. See the A/C Performance test procedure. If the refrigerant system is low or empty a leak at a line, fitting, or component seal is likely Fittings, lines, or components that appear to be oily indicate a possible refrigerant leak. To detect a leak in the refrigerant system, perform one of the following procedures:

SYSTEM EMPTY
1. Evacuate the refrigerant system.
2. Connect and dispense 0.283 kPa (0.6 lbs. or 10 oz.) of R-134a refrigerant into the evacuated refrigerant system. See the Refrigerant System Charge procedure.
3. Position the vehicle in a wind-free work area. This will aid in detecting small leaks.
4. With the engine not running, use a electronic R-134a leak detector and search for leaks. Move the leak detector probe slowly along the bottom side of all lines and fittings, because R-134a is heavier than air.
5. To inspect the evaporator coil(s) for leaks, insert the leak detector probe into the center instrument panel or side panel outlet. Set the blower motor switch to the lowest speed position, and the heater- A/C mode control switch in the Max (A/C) position.

SYSTEM LOW
1. Position the vehicle in a wind-free work area. This will aid in detecting small leaks.
2. Bring the refrigerant system up to operating temperature and pressure. This is done by allowing the engine to run with the air conditioning system turned on for five minutes.
3. With the engine not running, use a electronic R-134a leak detector and search for leaks. Move the leak detector probe slowly along the bottom side of all lines and fittings, because R-134a is heavier than air.
4. To inspect the evaporator coil(s) for leaks, insert the leak detector probe into the center instrument panel or side panel outlet. Set the blower motor switch to the lowest speed position, and the heater- A/C mode control switch in the Max (A/C) position.