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Home >> Kia >> 2012 >> Optima LX, Automatic Trans >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different variant/trim >> Section 6 (Air Conditioning System - HEV) >> Condenser >> Repair procedures >> Replacement
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Repair procedures: Replacement

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.
  1. Recover the refrigerant with a recovery/recycling/charging station.
    CAUTION:
    1. Do not use the same A/C recovery / charging station as conventional belt-driven compressors.
    2. Since the electric compressor uses high-voltage, you should use PVE oil which have high Volumetric Resistivity.
    3. If the PVE or POE oil of the system gets mixed PAG oil, then dielectric breakdown due to decreased volumetric Resistivity can occur and inoperative A/C compressor may result, A/C compressor may not work.
  2. Disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal.
  3. Remove the discharge line and liquid line (A) from the condenser.

    Tightening torque: 

    3.9~5.8 N.m(0.4~0.6Kgf.m, 2.9~4.3 lb-ft)

    Fig 1: Identifying Condenser Liquid Line
    G08309663Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
    NOTE: Plug or cap the lines immediately after disconnecting them to avoid moisture and dust contamination.
  4. Disconnect the mounting clip, and then remove the air duct hose assembly (A).
    Fig 2: Identifying Air Duct Hose Assembly
    G08309664Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
  5. Loosen the radiator bracket mounting bolts (A).
    Fig 3: Identifying Radiator Bracket Mounting Bolts
    G08309665Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
  6. Remove the radiator fan.

    (Refer to "RADIATOR ")

  7. Disconnect the pin (A) and then remove the condenser (C) from radiator (B).
    Fig 4: Identifying Condenser, Radiator And Pin
    G08309666Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
  8. Install in the reverse order of removal, and note these items:
    1. If you're installing a new condenser, add refrigerant oil ND-OIL8.
    2. Replace the O-rings with new ones at each fitting, and apply a thin coat of refrigerant oil before installing them. Be sure to use the right O-rings for R-134a to avoid leakage.
    3. Be careful not to damage the radiator and condenser fins when installing the condenser.
    4. Be sure to install the lower mount cushions of condenser securely into the holes.
    5. Charge the system, and test its performance.