Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Determining Dimensions Of Flat Pipes From Condenser
- Flat pipes of condenser -A-
- Width of flat pipes -B-
Production was gradually switched as of calendar week 45, 1998 (initially for Audi A6 with 6-cylinder diesel engine) to a condenser with smaller flat pipes.
Observe part number on condenser replacement (sometimes the only distinguishing feature).
Condensers -A- with flat pipe dimensions -B- = 20 mm and -C- = 3.0 mm must be filled with more refrigerant than condensers -D- with flat pipe dimensions -E- = 18 mm or 16 mm and -F- = 1.7 mm.
If condenser is replaced, observe flat pipe dimensions. If a condenser with different dimensions is installed, the sticker -A- specifying the capacity for refrigerant R134a is also to be replaced, or the old capacity specification is to be removed and the new capacity is to be noted, for example, using a waterproof marker.
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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.