Air Conditioning Unit: Removal

2004 Toyota Matrix XR, FWD, StandardSECTION Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Lexus IS 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Discharge Refrigerant From Refrigeration System 
    1. HINT:
    2. At the time of installation, please refer to the following item. Evacuate air from refrigeration system.
    3. Charge system with refrigerant and inspect for leakage of refrigerant.
    4. Specified amount: 600 +/- 50 g (21.16 +/- 1.76 oz.) 
  2. Drain Engine Coolant From Radiator 
    1. HINT:
    2. It is not necessary to drain out all coolant.
  3. Disconnect Liquid Tube And Suction Hose From A/C Unit 
      Fig 1: Disconnecting Liquid Tube & Suction Hose From A/C Unit
      G01178947Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    1. Remove the bolt and slide the plate, then disconnect the both tubes.
    2. Torque: 10 N.m (100 kgf.cm, 7 ft.lbf) 
    NOTE: Cap the open fittings immediately to keep moisture or dirt out of the system.
    1. HINT:
    2. At the time of installation, please refer to the following item. Lubricate 2 new O-rings with compressor oil and install them to the tubes.
  4. Disconnect Water Hoses From Heater Radiator Pipes 
    1. Grip the claws of the hose clip and slide the hose clip along the hose.
    2. Disconnect the water hose.
    Fig 2: Disconnecting Water Hoses From Heater Radiator Pipes
    G01178948Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  5. Remove Cooler No. 1 Grommet 
  6. Remove Heater Pipe Grommet 
  7. Remove Drain Hose Grommet 
  8. Remove Instrument Panel And Reinforcement (See REMOVAL & INSTALLATION  ) 
  9. Remove Blower Unit (See  REMOVAL  ) 
  10. Remove 2 Air Ducts 
    1. Slide the floor carpet backward.
    2. Remove the air ducts LH, RH.
    Fig 3: Removing 2 Air Ducts From A/C Systems
    G01178949Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  11. REMOVE A/C UNIT 
    1. Disconnect the connectors.
    2. Disconnect the wire harness clamps.
    3. Remove the 2 nuts, 2 bolt and A/C unit.
    Fig 4: Removing A/C Unit
    G01178950Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
RENDER: 1.0x

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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.