WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Disconnect the negative battery cable.
Discharge the refrigerant from the system. (See REFRIGERANT CHARGING .)
Drain the engine coolant. (See ENGINE COOLANT REPLACEMENT .)
Remove the following parts:
1. Ashtray
2. Console (See CONSOLE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
3. Glove compartment (See GLOVE COMPARTMENT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
4. Side panel (See SIDE PANEL REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
5. Lower panel (See LOWER PANEL REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
6. Column cover (See COLUMN COVER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
7. Steering shaft installation nuts (See STEERING WHEEL AND COLUMN REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
8. A-pillar trim (See A-PILLAR TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
9. Dashboard (See DASHBOARD REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
CAUTION:
- If moisture or foreign material enters the refrigeration cycle, cooling ability will be lowered and abnormal noise or other malfunction could occur. Always plug open fittings immediately after removing any refrigeration cycle parts.
Remove the A/C unit as shown in the figure.

Fig 1: Identifying A/C Unit

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Install in the reverse order of removal.
Perform the refrigerant system performance test. (See REFRIGERANT SYSTEM PERFORMANCE TEST .)

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.

Safety Warning

A/C Unit Removal/Installation: Notes

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

When to See a Mechanic

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