Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
A/C Compressor
Special tools and workshop equipment required
- Torque Wrench V.A.G 1331/ (5 to 50 Nm)
- A/C Service station ROB 134APF
- Rinsing Device For Refrigerant Circuits VAS6337/1
Flush the refrigerant circuit with R134a refrigerant under the following conditions:
In the event of dirt or other contamination in the refrigerant circuit.
If vacuum reading is not maintained on evacuating a leak-free refrigerant circuit (pressure build-up due to moisture in refrigerant circuit).
If refrigerant circuit has been left open for longer than normal (for example, following an accident).
If pressure and temperature measurements in the refrigerant circuit indicate the likelihood of moisture
In the event of doubt about the amount of refrigerant oil in the circuit.
The A/C compressor had to be replaced on account of internal damage (for example, noise or no output).
The procedure for flushing with R134a refrigerant is described in REFRIGERANT CIRCUIT, FLUSHING WITH REFRIGERANT R134A
Removal
Depending on the engine installed, remove the charge air hose.
-- Extract refrigerant using ROB 134APF, only then open the refrigerant circuit. See notes, refer to REFRIGERANT CIRCUIT COMPONENTS .
-- Remove the front noise insulation. Refer to Removal and Installation .
-- Remove the ribbed belt. Refer to RIBBED BELT for Engine(s): BUB, RIBBED BELT for Engine(s): BPY or RIBBED BELT for Engine(s): CBFA & CCTA .
-- Disconnect the connector from the A/C compressor regulator valve -N280-.
There is a danger of ice-up.
Refrigerant leaks out if refrigerant circuit is not discharged.
Refrigerant must be extracted before opening the refrigerant circuit. If refrigerant circuit is not opened within 10 minutes of extraction, pressure may form in refrigerant circuit due to evaporation. Extract refrigerant once more.
-- Remove the bolts (22 ± 1 Nm) -1- from the A/C compressor and then disconnect the refrigerant pipes from the A/C compressor.
-- Remove the hex bolts (25 ± 2 Nm) -2- and then remove the A/C compressor.
Installation
Make sure alignment bushings -3- are seated correctly.
Pay attention to notes for installing A/C compressor, refer to A/C COMPRESSOR INSTALLATION INFORMATION .
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.