AC Gas Leak and Smell - Condenser or Evaporator ?

[taal2020]

Hi,

 

The gas in my ac tends to leak and finish quickly (within 2 months), accompanied by bad smell. I have been told this is most likely due to the AC cooler leak.

 

Would this be the condenser or the evaporator ? Has anyone else faced this problem ?

[omar302]

It would be the evaporator, that is inside the vehicle behind the dashboard. The complete dashboard will need to be removed to change the evaporator.

 

OEM part only comes as a complete assembly, about $380. Evaporator only you can go aftermarket about $60-$80. But because you have to remove complete dashboard, I would highly recommend OEM to make sure you don't need to replace anything else soon.

[taal2020]

It would be the evaporator, that is inside the vehicle behind the dashboard. The complete dashboard will need to be removed to change the evaporator.

 

OEM part only comes as a complete assembly, about $380. Evaporator only you can go aftermarket about $60-$80. But because you have to remove complete dashboard, I would highly recommend OEM to make sure you don't need to replace anything else soon.

 

 

Thanks and appreciate the detailed explanation. The mechanic did mention that it would take 2 days to remove and fix the evaporator/cooler, and they have to remove the entire dashboard.

[omar302]

I just noticed you're from Oman. For your information, the dealer here in Qatar charged me about QAR 3,200/- (~330 Omani Riyals) for the complete job with OEM evaporator assembly. (that was for my older 2011 MKX)

 

Also, if your going ahead with the job, it would be a good time to change the Spark Plugs & PCV valve as the intake manifold was removed during replacement on my old car.

Edited April 8, 2018 by omar302