Heating/air Conditioning: Other Honda Pilot II

A/C Service Tips and Precautions

The air conditioning system uses HFC-134a (R-134a) refrigerant and polyalkyleneglycol (PAG) refrigerant oil, which are not compatible with CFC-12 (R-12) refrigerant and mineral oil. Do not use R-12 refrigerant or mineral oil in this system, and do not attempt to use R-12 servicing equipment; damage to the air conditioning system or your servicing equipment will result.

Use only service equipment that is U.L-listed and is certified to meet the requirements of SAEJ2210 to remove R-134a from the air conditioning system.

If accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate the work area before resuming service.

R-134a service equipment or vehicle air conditioning systems should not be pressure tested or leak tested with compressed air.

Additional health and safety information may be obtained from the refrigerant and lubricant manufacturers.

1. Always disconnect the negative cable from the battery whenever replacing air conditioning parts.
2. Keep moisture and dirt out of the system. When disconnecting any lines, plug or cap the fittings immediately; don't remove the caps or plugs until just before you reconnect each line.
3. Before connecting any hose or line, apply a few drops of refrigerant oil to the O-ring.
4. When tightening or loosening a fitting, use a second wrench to support the matching fitting.
5. When discharging the system, use an R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging station; don't release refrigerant into the atmosphere.

How To Check For DTCs With the HDS

Note. There are three methods used to check for DTCs. The recommended method is to use the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) with the appropriate software, plugged into the data link connector (DLC), then go to B-CAN system diagnosis test mode A (see TROUBLESHOOTING - B-CAN SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS TEST MODE A ). The second method is to run the self-diagnostic function built into the HVAC control unit. The third method is to use the B-CAN system diagnostic test mode 1 and mode 2 without the HDS (see TROUBLESHOOTING - B-CAN SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS TEST MODE 1 AND TEST MODE 2 (WITHOUT THE HDS) ).

Scheme 99

1. Make sure the ignition switch is in LOCK (0).
2. Connect the HDS to the data link connector (DLC) (A) located under the driver's side of the dashboard.
3. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
4. Make sure the HDS communicates with the vehicle and the MICU. If it doesn't, troubleshoot the DLC circuit (see «DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING»(ref-333558-S02093989162009072100000) ).
5. Select HVAC/CLIMATE CONTROL in the BODY ELECTRICAL menu.
6. Select DTCs in the HVAC/CLIMATE CONTROL menu.
7. Check for DTCs. If any DTCs are indicated, write down the DTCs, then go to troubleshooting B-CAN system diagnosis test mode A (see «TROUBLESHOOTING - B-CAN SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS TEST MODE A»(ref-333611-S24721524652009072100000) ). If no DTCs are indicated, refer to symptom troubleshooting.

Note. After troubleshooting, clear the DTCs with the HDS. For specific operations, refer to the user's manual that came with the HDS.

How To Use the HDS to Check For DTCs

Note. This method is only available if the HDS can communication with the MICU. If there is a communication problem with the HDS, go to B-CAN system diagnostic test mode A (see TROUBLESHOOTING - B-CAN SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS TEST MODE A ).

1. Make sure the ignition switch is in LOCK (0).
2. Connect the HDS to the data link connector (DLC).
3. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
4. Make sure the HDS communicates with the vehicle and the MICU. If it doesn't, troubleshoot the DLC circuit, (see «DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING»(ref-333558-S02093989162009072100000) )
5. Select HVAC/CLIMATE CONTROL in the BODY ELECTRICAL menu.
6. Select INSPECTION in the HVAC/CLIMATE CONTROL menu.
7. Select CLIMATE CONTROL SELF TEST in the INSPECTION menu.
8. Check for DTCs. If any DTCs are indicated, write down the DTCs, then go to the indicated DTC troubleshooting.

Note. After troubleshooting, clear the DTCs with the HDS. For specific operations, refer to the user's manual that came with the HDS.

Clear the DTCs

When the problem is repaired, DTCs will automatically clear.

Max Cool Position Function

When the MAX A/C button is pressed, the HVAC control unit will automatically select the recirculation mode and turn the A/C on.

Checking the DTCs by HDS

DTC TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE

A/C Pressure Sensor

The A/C pressure sensor converts A/C pressure into electrical signals to the PCM.

Note. The pressures can be monitored using the HDS PGM-FI Data List.

Scheme 100

The response of the A/C pressure sensor is shown in the graph below.

Note. When the refrigerant is below 196 kPa (2.0 kgf/cm 2 , 28 psi) or above 3,140 kPa (32 kgf/cm 2 , 455 psi), the PCM turns the compressor relay off to protect the A/C compressor.

Scheme 101

Scheme 102

Scheme 103

Scheme 104

HVAC Control Unit Inputs and Outputs

CONNECTOR A

CONNECTOR A REFERENCE TABLE

Scheme 105

CONNECTOR B

CONNECTOR B REFERENCE TABLE

Scheme 106

Rear HVAC Control Unit Inputs and Outputs

CONNECTOR TERMINALS REFERENCE TABLE

Scheme 107

Scheme 108

Scheme 109

Scheme 110

Scheme 111

Refrigerant Recovery

Note. If accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate the work area before resuming service. Additional health and safety information may be obtained from the refrigerant and lubricant manufacturers.

Scheme 112

1. Connect an R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging station (A) to the high-pressure service port (B) and the low-pressure service port (C), as shown below, following the equipment manufacturer's instructions.
2. Measure the amount of refrigerant oil removed from the A/C system after the recovery process is completed. Be sure to put the same amount of new refrigerant oil back into the A/C system before charging.

System Evacuation

Note. If accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate the work area before resuming service. Additional health and safety information may be obtained from the refrigerant and lubricant manufacturers.

Scheme 113

1. When an A/C System has been opened to the atmosphere, such as during installation or repair, it must be evacuated using an R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging station. If the system has been open for several days, the receiver/dryer should be replaced, and the system should be evacuated for several hours.
2. Connect an R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging station (A) to the high-pressure service port (B) and the low-pressure service port (C), as shown, following the equipment manufacturer's instructions. Evacuate the system.
3. If the low-pressure does not reach more than 93.3 kPa (700 mmHg, 27.6 in. Hg) in 15 minutes, there is probably a leak in the system. Partially charge the system, and check for leaks (see «REFRIGERANT LEAK TEST»(ref-333580-S06379859662009072100000) ).

System Charging

Note. If accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate the work area before resuming service. Additional health and safety information may be obtained from the refrigerant and lubricant manufacturers.

Scheme 114

1. Connect an R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging station (A) to the high-pressure service port (B) and the low-pressure service port (C), as shown, following the equipment manufacturer's instructions.
2. Evacuate the system (see «REFRIGERANT RECOVERY»(ref-333580-S26852216912009072100000) ).
3. Add the same amount of new refrigerant oil to the system that was removed during recovery. Use only DENSO ND-OIL 8 refrigerant oil.
4. Charge the system with the specified amount of R-134a refrigerant. Do not overcharge the system; the A/C compressor will be damaged. Select the appropriate units of measure for your refrigerant charging station. Refrigerant Capacity: 600 to 650 g 0.60 to 0.65 kg 1.32 to 1.43 lbs 21.2 to 22.9 oz
5. Check for refrigerant leaks (see «REFRIGERANT LEAK TEST»(ref-333580-S06379859662009072100000) ).
6. Check the system performance (see «A/C SYSTEM TEST»(ref-333580-S16855972072009072100000) ).

Refrigerant Leak Check

1. SPECIAL TOOLS REQUIRED
2. Leak Detector YGK-H-10PM
3. Leak Detector HLD-100
4. Leak Detector TIFZX-1
5. OPTIMAX Jr. A/C Leak Detection Kit TRP124893 *: These tools are available through the Honda Tool and Equipment Program; call 888-424-6857

Note. If accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate the work area before resuming service. Additional health and safety information may be obtained from the refrigerant and lubricant manufacturers. Check the system for leaks using an R-134a refrigerant leak detector with an accuracy of 14 g (0.49 oz) per year or better.

LEAK DETECTOR USAGE TIPS (REFER TO THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL FOR COMPLETE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS)

1. Position the vehicle in a wind-free work area. This will aid in detecting small leaks.
2. When using the leak detector for the first time, allow it to warm up for 2 minutes with the probe in a clean atmosphere. This lets the temperature sensor in the detector stabilize.
3. The calibration check should be done in the ''Search 2" mode. Once that is done, the other check modes do not need calibrating.
4. When leak checking through the HVAC module drain hose, avoid drawing water into the probe. Water can damage the internal pump and sensor.
5. Avoid creasing the flexible probe extension. Creases can restrict air flow and give false readings.
6. Because the detector recalibrates itself for ambient gases, it may be necessary to move the detector away from the leak to clear the sensor. Once the sensor has cleared, recheck the suspected leak.
7. When removing the clear probe tip, be careful not to lose the flow ball.
8. R-134a is heavier than air; always check below and to the sides of all potential leak sources.
9. Halogen leak detectors are sensitive to chemicals: windshield washing solutions, solvents/cleaners, and some vehicle adhesives. Keep these chemicals out of the area when doing leak detection.

LEAK DETECTOR USAGE TIPS (REFER TO THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL FOR COMPLETE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS)

1. Use only Tracer-Stick single dose fluorescent dye capsules from Tracerline?. Other dyes contain solvents that may contaminate the refrigerant oil, leading to component failure.
2. Adding excessive amounts of dye can damage the compressor.
3. PAG oil is water soluble, so condensation on the evaporator core or the refrigerant lines may wash the PAG oil and fluorescent dye away from the actual leak. Condensation may also carry dye through the evaporator module drain.
4. After checking and repairing leaks, thoroughly clean any residual dye from the areas where leaks were found. Use GLO-AWAY dye cleaner, from Tracerline?, and hot water to remove the dye (follow the instructions on the bottle). Residual dye stains can cause misdiagnosis of any future A/C system leaks.
5. If any refrigerant dye contacts an exterior paint surface, remove it by doing this: Carefully wash the affected surfaces to remove any dirt, and to prevent paint scratching. Mix water and isopropyl alcohol in a 50/50 mixture. Soak a soft cotton towel with the water/alcohol mixture, and place the cloth on the affected areas to remove the dye. After removing the dye with the water/alcohol-soaked cloth, carefully wash the affected areas, and check that there is no remaining dye.

Scheme 115

1. Connect an R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging station (A) to the high-pressure service port (B) and the low-pressure service port (C), as shown, following the equipment manufacturer's instructions.
2. Recover refrigerant from the A/C system «Refrigerant Recovery»(ref-333580-S26852216912009072100000) , and evacuate the system «System Evacuation»(ref-333580-S03232597452009072100000) . If the system achieves a vacuum of approximately -93.3 kPa (-700 mmHg,-27.55 inHg) in 15 minutes, and holds the vacuum for 15 minutes, then the system does not have a leak at this time. If the system cannot achieve or hold a vacuum, continue the refrigerant leak check.
3. Open the high pressure valve to charge the system to the specified capacity. Select the appropriate units of measurement for your refrigerant charging station. Refrigerant Capacity: 600 to 650 g 0.60 to 0.65 kg 1.32 to 1.43 lbs 21.2 to 22.9 oz
4. With the engine OFF, use a halogen leak detector first to detect the leak source. Follow a continuous path in order to ensure that you will not miss any possible leaks. Test the following areas of the system for leaks: Possible Leak Area Diagnostic Procedure with the Leak Detector Notes Service Ports • Check the service ports with the detector caps installed. • If the detector ''sniffs" a leak, use fluorescent dye to confirm it. When capping the service ports, ensure that the seals on the port caps are in place, and that the caps are tight. The caps are used as the final seals in the system. Condenser If the detector ''sniffs" a leak, use fluorescent dye to confirm it. • Check for joints or connections coated with oily dust. • Check for damaged and corroded areas. • Move the probe slowly (1 inch/second or less), and keep it within 1/4 inch of the component being checked. This maximizes the chance of detecting a leak. • If you detect a leak, blow compressed air over the area, then recheck for leaks. For large leaks, cleaning the area with compressed air may help you pinpoint the leak source. A/C Lines • Wiggle the rubber hoses when checking crimped metal ends. • If the detector ''sniffs" a leak, use fluorescent dye to confirm it. • Check all fittings, couplings, pressure switches, brazed/welded areas, and areas around attachment points on A/C lines and components. • Check for damaged and corroded areas. • Move the probe slowly (1 inch/second or less), and keep it within 1/4 inch of the component being checked. This maximizes the chance of detecting a leak.
5. Close the quick coupler valves, then disconnect the quick couplers from the vehicle service ports.
6. Attach the universal connect set, from the Optimax Jr. Leak Detection Kit, to the service valve fitting. Close the control valve (the black knob on the connect set).
7. Attach the charging station low pressure hose quick coupler to the service valve fitting, and open the quick coupler valve. Evacuate the connect set using the charging station vacuum pump, then close the quick coupler valve.
8. Detach the universal connect set, and install a Tracer-Stick? dye capsule between the connect set and the service valve fitting (see the manufacturer's instructions for more detail).
9. Attach the quick coupler on the universal connect set to the low pressure service port on the vehicle. Open the charging station low pressure hose quick coupler valve, but do not open the control valve.
10. Start the engine, and set the A/C system to maximum cooling. Open the control valve to let refrigerant and the dye enter the A/C system through the low pressure service port. Close the control valve when the Tracer-Stick? dye capsule is empty.
11. Run the engine and A/C system for 15 minutes to thoroughly circulate the dye. Then shut the engine off, and inspect the following areas of the system for leaks.

Note. Check for leaks in a dark work area, and use the UV light and the special glasses from the leak check kit. Other UV lights may not work well with the Tracer-Stick? dye. Small leaks may take up to 1 week of vehicle operation (with normal A/C use) to become visible.