Caution. The air conditioning system is constantly under high pressure. Never disconnect refrigerant lines or remove system components without first draining the refrigerant from the system. The refrigerant must be drained from the air conditioning system by the dealer's service department or by an automotive air conditioning specialist using a service station designed for draining/recycling refrigerant that meets environmental protection legislation. Always wear protective goggles when disconnecting refrigerant lines!
Caution: The receiver drier should be replaced every time the compressor is replaced.
1. Unload the refrigerant, for which it is hardly necessary to contact a specialist in car air conditioning.
2. On Highlander models, remove the grille. On Lexus models, remove the front bumper (see chapter 11).
3. On Lexus models, remove the radiator support (see paragraph 5). On Highlander models, remove the upper radiator mounts (see paragraph 5).
4. Disconnect the inlet and outlet fittings (Fig. 15.4). Immediately plug the open fittings to prevent moisture and dirt from entering the system.
Fig. 15.4. Condenser line fittings
5. Remove the fasteners (Fig. 15.5). Press the radiator back toward the engine, then press the condenser back until it is free of the radiator support and can be removed from the vehicle. On 2004 and later Lexus models, the condenser is removed toward the front of the vehicle.
Fig. 15.5. Fastening elements of the condenser support bracket
6. Install the condenser, brackets and bolts. Make sure that the rubber pads are correctly positioned in the support areas.
7. Connect the refrigerant lines, using new sealing rings if necessary
8. Install the remaining components in the reverse order of removal.
9. Have the system evacuated, refilled with refrigerant, and checked for leaks. To do this, contact an automotive air conditioning specialist.