A/C System Inspection

Before troubleshooting any problem with the air conditioning system, do the following:

1. With the ignition switch in LOCK (0), inspect the A/C components, the pressure lines, and the hoses for stains that may indicate a refrigerant or a compressor oil leak.
   Fig 1: Identifying Refrigerant Line Leakage Area

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
2. Check the A/C condenser (A) for material clogging the fins or for damage to the fins:
   • Carefully clean any material from the A/C condenser fins with water and detergent. If deeper cleaning is required, clean the fins with Honda Brite cleaner (P/N 08732-0020B).
   • Be sure to dry the A/C condenser completely.
   • Refer to the refrigerant leak check (see REFRIGERANT LEAK CHECK ) to confirm leaks if there is visible damage to the A/C condenser.
   Fig 2: Identifying A/C Condenser

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
3. Inspect the drive belt (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER INSPECTION ).
4. Make sure no material is blocking the air flow to the A/C condenser.
5. Check the dust and pollen filter. Replace it if it is clogged (see DUST AND POLLEN FILTER REPLACEMENT ).
6. Check for kinks or sharp bends in the A/C lines and hoses, which can greatly reduce system performance. Replace A/C lines and hoses if they are kinked or damaged (see A/C LINE REPLACEMENT ).
7. Start the engine, turn the air conditioning system on, and allow it to run for a few minutes and reach stable operation.
   • Check that the A/C operates at each position of the blower fan switch (except OFF). If the A/C does not operate, refer to the symptom troubleshooting index.
   • Check that the A/C compressor clutch (A) is engaged. The armature plate should be rotating at the same speed as the pulley. If the armature plate does not engage, refer to the symptom troubleshooting index.
   • Check that the radiator fan (B) and A/C condenser fan (C) operate when the A/C compressor clutch is engaged. If either fan fails to operate when the A/C compressor clutch is engaged, refer to the symptom troubleshooting index.
   • Check that the engine idle speed is correctly maintained when the A/C is switched on and off and the A/C compressor clutch is engaged and disengaged.
   Fig 3: Identifying A/C Compressor Clutch, Radiator Fan And A/C Condenser Fan

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.