Air Conditioning Compressor Replacement (LZ4)

2010 Saturn Vue XE, 3.5 NSECTION Air Conditioning Compressor Replacement (LZ4)
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Fig 1: Identifying Air Conditioning Compressor
GM2003684Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Callout Component Name

Preliminary Procedure

  1. Recover the refrigerant. Refer to Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging .
  2. Remove the drive belt. Refer to Drive Belt Replacement .
  3. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
  4. Remove the right front fender liner. Refer to Front Wheelhouse Panel Splash Shield Replacement .
  5. Disconnect the electrical connector.
1 A/C Compressor Hose Nut
NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice .

Tip:  Remove the A/C compressor hose from the A/C compressor and cap hose.

Tighten:  20 N.m (15 lb ft)

2 Sealing Washer
Tip:  Remove and discard sealing washers. Refer to Sealing Washer Replacement .
3 A/C Compressor Nut
Tip:  Tighten in sequence with A/C compressor mounting bolts.

Tighten:  50 N.m (37 lb ft)

4 A/C Compressor Bolt
Tip:  Tighten the A/C compressor mounting bolts and nut in sequence.

Tighten:  50 N.m (37 lb ft)

5 A/C Compressor Assembly

Procedure

  1. Removal of oil filter and repositioning of the front exhaust pipe may be necessary to ease in compressor replacement.
  2. Use a low viscosity, poly-alkylene glycol (PAG) oil. Use of the incorrect oil can result in compressor failure.
  3. When replacing the A/C compressor, balance the compressor. Refer to Air Conditioning Compressor Oil Balancing .
  4. Using J 39400  , leak test A/C compressor fittings. See Special Tools .

Special Tools: 
J-39400 Electronic Halogen Leak Detector
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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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.