Honda Civic Service Manual: A/C System Inspection

NOTE: For A/C system noise, go to the A/C System Noise Check.

Before troubleshooting any problem with the A/C system, other than noise, do the following:

1.

Check that the HVAC air intake plenum at the base of the windshield is not blocked by leaves or debris. Remove any blockage.

2.

Check for kinks or sharp bends in the A/C lines and hoses (which can greatly reduce system performance). If any of the A/C lines and hoses are kinked or bent, replace them.

3.

Inspect the A/C components, the pressure lines, and the hoses for stains that may indicate a refrigerant or an A/C compressor oil leak. If there is any indication of leaks, do the Refrigerant Leak Check to confirm the leak(s).

4.

Inspect the drive belt for physical damage or signs of slippage. If the drive belt is damaged or shows signs of slippage, replace it and recheck.

5.

Check the A/C condenser (A) for material clogging the fins (dirt, insects, etc.). If the A/C condenser is clogged or restricted, carefully clean any material from the A/C condenser fins with water and detergent. If deeper cleaning is required, clean the fins with HondaBrite cleaner. Be sure to dry the A/C condenser completely.

6.

Check the A/C condenser for fin damage (bent fins). If any of the A/C condenser fins are bent, try to comb them straight. Do the Refrigerant Leak Check to check for leaks if there is visible damage to the A/C condenser. If the A/C condenser is leaking or the fins cannot be straightened, replace the A/C condenser.

7.

Check the dust and pollen filter. If the dust and pollen filter is clogged or restricted, replace it.

8.

Check for HVAC DTCs using the Self-Diagnostic Function. If there are any DTCs, go to the appropriate troubleshooting.

9.

Start the engine, turn the A/C system on, and allow it to run for a few minutes and reach stable operation.

10.

Check that the A/C operates at each position of the fan control dial or fan control button (except OFF). If the A/C does not operate at all fan control dial or fan control button positions, refer to the symptom troubleshooting.

11.

Check that the A/C compressor clutch armature plate (A) is rotating at the same speed as the pulley and is engaging. If the A/C compressor clutch is not engaging properly, go to the A/C Compressor Clutch Circuit Troubleshooting.

12.

Check that the A/C condenser fan (B) and the radiator fan (C) operate when the A/C compressor clutch is engaged and blow air toward the engine compartment. If one or both of the fans is not working properly, refer to the symptom troubleshooting.

13.

Check that the engine idle speed is correctly maintained when the A/C is switched on and off, (A/C compressor clutch is engaged and disengaged). If the idle speed increases more than 100 rpm when the A/C compressor engages, confirm that the A/C compressor is the cause of the idle speed increase. Replace the A/C compressor, if necessary.