Performance Test

2008 Acura CSX Base, K20A3SECTION Performance Test
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Acura TL, 2010 Acura TL, and 2009 Acura TL. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION:
  • Air conditioning refrigerant or lubricant vapor can irritate your eyes, nose, or throat
  • Be careful when connecting service equipment
  • Do not breathe refrigerant or vapor

The performance test will help determine if the A/C system is operating within specifications

NOTE:
  • If accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate the work area before resuming service
  • Additional health and safety information may be obtained from the refrigerant and lubricant manufacturers
  1. Do the A/C system inspection (see A/C SYSTEM INSPECTION ), and correct any problems found
  2. Connect an R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging station to the high-pressure service port and the low-pressure service port, following the equipment manufacturer's instructions
  3. Determine the relative humidity and air temperature
  4. Remove the glove box (see GLOVE BOX REMOVAL/INSTALLATION )
  5. Insert a thermometer (A) in the center vent
    Fig 1: Identifying Thermometer In Center Vent
    G05988754Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  6. Place a thermometer (B) near the blower unit's recirculation inlet duct
  7. Test conditions
    • Move the vehicle out of direct sunlight and let it cool down to the surrounding (ambient) temperature If necessary, wash the vehicle to cool it down more quickly
    • The ambient temperature must be at least 60 °F (16 °C)
    • Open the hood
    • Open the front doors
    • Set the temperature control button to Max Cool, the mode control button to Vent, and the recirculation control button to Recirculate
    • Turn the A/C button ON and the fan ON/OFF button to Max
    • Hold the engine speed at 1,500 rpm
    • No driver or passengers in the vehicle
  8. Inspect the A/C components for the following conditions
    • A/C compressor clutch not engaged
    • Abnormal frost areas
    • Unusual noises

    If you observe any of these conditions, refer to the SYMPTOM TROUBLESHOOTING INDEX 

  9. After running the air conditioning for 10 minutes under the above test conditions, read the delivery temperature from the thermometer in the center vent, the intake temperature near the blower unit, and the discharge (high) and suction (low) pressures on the A/C gauges
  10. To complete the vent (delivery)/ambient air (intake) temperature chart
    • Mark the vent (delivery) temperature on the vertical line
    • Mark the ambient air (intake) temperature on the bottom line
    • Draw a vertical line from the ambient air (intake) temperature mark
    • Draw a horizontal line from the vent (delivery) temperature mark until it intersects the vertical line
    NOTE: The vent temperature and ambient air temperature should intersect in the shaded area Any measurements outside the area may indicate the need for further inspection
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

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.