SYS.OK|MANUAL.DB● LIVE
HOMESERVICE MANUALSHONDA2003CIVIC HX, STANDARDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT VARIANT/TRIMSECTION 7 (HVAC SYSTEMS (HATCHBACK))COMPRESSOR REPLACEMENT
2003 Honda Civic HX, Standard

Compressor Replacement

2003 Honda Civic HX, StandardSECTION Compressor Replacement
WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.
  1. If the compressor is marginally operable, run the engine at idle speed, and let the air conditioning work for a few minutes, then shut the engine off.
  2. Make sure you have the anti-theft code for the radio, then write down the frequencies for the radio's preset buttons.
  3. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
  4. Recover the refrigerant with a recovery/recycling/charging station (see REFRIGERANT RECOVERY ).
  5. Remove the alternator (see GENERATORS & REGULATORS ).
  6. Remove the A/C condenser fan assembly (see COOLING SYSTEM ).
  7. Disconnect the compressor clutch connector (A), remove the bolts, then disconnect the suction line (B) and the discharge line (C) from the compressor. Plug or cap the lines immediately after disconnecting them to avoid moisture and dust contamination.
    Fig 1: Disconnecting The Suction Line And The Discharge Line From The Compressor
    G01400628Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  8. Remove the mounting bolts and the compressor.
    Fig 2: Removing The Mounting Bolts And The Compressor
    G01400629Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  9. Install the compressor in the reverse order of removal, and note these items:
    • Before installing the new compressor, check for metal or other contamination in the line. Replace any contaminated parts.
    • If you're installing a new compressor, you must calculate the amount of refrigerant oil to be removed from it (see A/C REFRIGERANT OIL REPLACEMENT ).
    • Replace the O-rings with new ones at each fitting, and apply a thin coat of refrigerant oil before installing them. Be sure to use the correct C-rings for HFC-134a (R-134a) to avoid leakage.
    • Use refrigerant oil (KEIHIN SP-10) for HFC-134a KEIHIN spiral type compressor only.
    • To avoid contamination, do not return the oil to the container once dispensed, and never mix it with other refrigerant oils.
    • Immediately after using the oil, reinstall the cap on the container, and seal it to avoid moisture absorption.
    • Do not spill the refrigerant oil on the vehicle; it may damage the paint. If the refrigerant oil contacts the paint, wash it off immediately.
    • Charge the system (see SYSTEM CHARGING ).
    • Do the engine control module (ECM) idle learn procedure (see ECM/PCM IDLE LEARN PROCEDURE ).
    • Enter the anti-theft code for the radio, then enter the customer's radio station presets.
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.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsFree Quote CheckQuote Shield Pro

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.