Detaching refrigerant lines at air conditioner compressor/attaching — AUDI

🧭 Before you start

Fits: Audi A3 (8P, 2003–2012)

• Opens: refrigerant (A/C)

🔩 Torque settings

Values can differ between engine variants — check the code stamped on your block.

ℹ️ Always cross-check the exact figure against your vehicle's factory manual before final tightening — a wrong torque can damage the engine. These values are extracted from workshop data and may not cover every variant or revision.

📋 Procedure

1. Drain the refrigerant circuit Air conditioner with refrigerant R134a87Refrigerant circuit (air conditioner with refrigerant R134a, refrigerant circuit, working with air conditioner service station).
2. Remove top engine cover panel (depending on engine, not necessary on all engine versions) Engine, mechanics13.
3. Remove centre noise insulation (not necessary for all engine types, depends on engine) General body repairs, exterior66.
4. If applicable, remove the noise insulation frame (currently fitted for example on the Audi A3 Cabrio) General body repairs, exterior50.
5. On vehicles on which the bolts at the refrigerant line connections are not accessible with the air conditioner compressor in position, detach the air conditioner compressor from the holder (e.g. on vehicles with 3.2 l MPI engine) .

6. Remove the holders on vehicles on which the refrigerant lines are secured with additional holders.
7. Remove the bolts (A) and (D).
8. Detach the refrigerant lines (B) and (E).
9. Replace the O-rings (C) and (F). For version refer to: Electronic parts catalogue
10. Check the fitted pin (H) (not provided with all connections) and the sleeve (J) for damage and proper attachment.
11. Tighten the bolts (A) and (D) to 25 Nm. [Note: Use is not to be made of the O-rings from the caps of the replacement air conditioner compressor connections.Lubricate O-rings lightly with refrigeration oil before fitting .Pay attention to correct positioning of the O-rings in the groove (G) of the corresponding refrigerant line.Following attachment of the refrigerant lines to the air conditioner compressor (and after installing the air conditioner compressor) check the routing of the lines. They must be inserted in the holders provided and not make contact with other components.] — 25 Nm (18 lb-ft)
12. Evacuate and re-charge the refrigerant circuit Air conditioner with refrigerant R134a87Refrigerant circuit (air conditioner with refrigerant R134a, refrigerant circuit, working with air conditioner service station).
13. Start up air conditioner after charging refrigerant circuit . [Note: Also observe notes on starting up air conditioner after charging Air conditioner with refrigerant R134a87General information on air conditioning systems (Air conditioner with refrigerant R134a; General information on air conditioning systems). Before starting up air conditioner after fresh charging.]

Other AUDI procedures

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