Pressure Relief Valve On A/C Compressor, Checking

Checking

Function: protects the refrigerant circuit against high pressures.

CAUTION:

There is a risk of getting frostbite from the refrigerant. The pressure relief valve drains refrigerant when the engine is running and the refrigerant circuit pressure is too high.

Frostbite on the hands and other parts of the body is possible.

- Wear safety gloves.

- Wear protective eyewear.

- Turn off the engine.

Pressure relief valve on Denso A/C compressor

Fig 1: Pressure Relief Valve on A/C Compressor (Denso)

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

The pressure relief valve -arrow- has activated if refrigerant oil is found in the close vicinity.
In this case, the vehicle must be taken to a specialized service facility. Refer to WORKING ON REFRIGERANT CIRCUIT .

NOTE:

For other A/C compressor manufactures, the relief valve is in a similar location.