Refrigerant Circuit, Detecting Leaks

Refrigerant Circuit, Detecting Leaks

CAUTION:
- If it is suspected that chemicals were added to the refrigerant circuit to seal leaks, do no connect the A/C service station and do not extract the refrigerant.
- Chemicals that seal leaks in the coolant circuit form deposits that affect the function of the A/C system and lead to A/C system failure (and failure of the A/C service station).
- Inform that customer that there are substances in the A/C system that are no approved by VW. This A/C system cannot be drained or serviced in the workshop.

[1][2]Component Tests and General Diagnostics
[1][2]Component Tests and General Diagnostics

NOTE:
- This repair information describes two different methods for detecting leaks in the refrigerant circuit. These methods have been tested and result in success when used correctly.
- Many methods for detecting leaks in the refrigerant circuit are offered in the open market. These methods do not always have optimum results. If they are not used exactly according to specifications, they can indicate refrigerant circuit components have leaks even when they do not. Also, refrigerant circuit components can be damaged by some methods.
- Do not service components if leaks have been detected in them. Replace them with original parts.
- VW does not approve the use of chemicals to seal leaks in the refrigerant circuit.
- Chemicals used to seal leaks in the refrigerant circuit often react with air and the moisture in it. They cause deposits in the refrigerant circuit (and the A/C service station) and malfunctions in valves and other components that they come in contact with. These deposits cannot be removed completely from the components, even by flushing.