Tesla Model 3: Air Conditioning System Precautions
General
The air conditioning system contains fluids and components which could be potentially hazardous to the technician or the environment if not serviced and handled correctly. The following guidelines are intended to alert the technician to potential sources of danger and emphasize the importance of ensuring the integrity of the air conditioning operating conditions and components fitted to the vehicle.
Where necessary, additional specific precautions are detailed in the relevant sections of this Service Manual, which should be referred to prior to commencing repair operations.
The refrigerant used in the air conditioning system is R134a or R1234yf, depending on the region.
Warning:Servicing must only be carried out by personnel familiar with both the vehicle system and the charging and testing equipment. All operations must be carried out in a well-ventilated area away from open flame and heat sources.
Warning:Refrigerant is a hazardous liquid and when handled incorrectly can cause serious injury. Suitable protective clothing, consisting of face protection, heat-proof gloves, rubber boots, and apron or waterproof overalls, must be worn when carrying out operations on the air conditioning system.
Remedial Actions
Due to its low evaporating temperature, refrigerant must be handled with care. Refrigerant splashed on any part of the body will cause immediate freezing of that area.
If an accident involving refrigerant should occur, conduct the following remedial actions:
- If liquid refrigerant enters the eye, do not rub it. Gently run large quantities of eye wash over affected eye to raise the temperature. If an eye wash is not available, cool, clean water may be used to flush the eye. After rinsing, cover the eye with a clean pad and seek immediate medical attention.
- If liquid refrigerant is splashed onto the skin, run large quantities of water over the affected area to raise the temperature. Implement the same action if the skin comes in contact with discharging cylinders. Wrap the contaminated body parts in blankets (or similar materials) and seek immediate medical attention.
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Service Precautions
Observe the following precautions when handling components used in the air
conditioning system:
Air conditioning units must not be lifted by their hoses, pipes, or
capillary lines.
Hoses and
Compressor
A new compressor is sealed. Make sure that no foreign material is allowed to
enter the compressor.
Caution: Do not remove the compressor caps until immediately prior to
connecting the air conditioni
Debris or Moisture in the A/C System
Internally or externally damaged components can cause debris and moisture to
enter the A/C system. Perform the following procedures if debris or excessive
moisture ingress is suspected.
Caution: Do
SEE MORE:
Seal - Glass Run - Front Door - LH (Remove and Replace)- Remove
Remove
Remove the LH front door trim panel. See
Panel - Door Trim - Front - LH (Remove and Install).
Remove the LH front door inner belt seal from the door. See
Seal - Inner Belt - Front Door - LH (Remove and Replace).
Disconnect the mirror electrical harness from the connectors.
Trim - Side Rail - LH (Remove and Replace)
Remove
Remove the LH side rail trim. See
Trim - Side Rail - LH (Remove and Install).
Release the clips that attach the old LH side rail tethers to the LH
side rail, and then remove and discard the tethers from the vehicle.
Install
If not pre-installed, install new push clips (x
