How to Recharge AC on 2017 Honda Civic

Is the air conditioning in your 2017 Honda Civic not cooling as it should? It might be time to recharge the AC system. Recharging the AC on your Honda Civic is a simple process that can help restore the cooling performance of your car’s air conditioning system. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to recharge the AC on your 2017 Honda Civic, so you can enjoy a comfortable and cool ride during hot summer days.

What You Will Need

Before we dive into the steps of recharging the AC system, let’s gather the necessary tools and materials:

• R-134a refrigerant
• AC pressure gauge
• AC recharge hose with gauge
• Safety goggles
• Gloves

Make sure to purchase a refrigerant that is compatible with your Honda Civic’s AC system. Additionally, it’s important to wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from any potential refrigerant leaks or skin irritation.

Step 1: Prepare the AC Recharge Kit

The first step in recharging the AC on your 2017 Honda Civic is to prepare the AC recharge kit. Attach the AC recharge hose to the can of R-134a refrigerant. Make sure the valve on the hose is closed before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Locate the Low-Pressure Port

Next, you need to locate the low-pressure port in your Honda Civic. The low-pressure port is usually located on the larger diameter metal tubing of the AC system. It is typically labeled with an “L” or “Low” to indicate its purpose. Refer to your car’s owner’s manual if you’re having trouble finding the low-pressure port.

Once you’ve located the low-pressure port, remove the protective cap from the port. Set the cap aside in a safe place to avoid losing it.

Step 3: Connect the AC Recharge Hose

Now it’s time to connect the AC recharge hose to the low-pressure port. Attach the quick-connect fitting on the end of the recharge hose to the low-pressure port. Make sure the fitting is securely attached to avoid any refrigerant leaks during the recharge process.

Step 4: Start the Engine and Turn on the AC

Before you start recharging the AC system, it’s important to start the engine and turn on the AC to its maximum setting. This will ensure that the AC compressor is running, allowing the refrigerant to circulate through the system.

Step 5: Monitor the AC Pressure Gauge

With the engine running and the AC turned on, it’s time to monitor the AC pressure gauge. The gauge will give you an indication of the pressure level in the AC system. It’s important to pay attention to this gauge throughout the recharge process to avoid overcharging the system.

Here’s a YouTube video that demonstrates the steps to recharge the AC on a 10th generation Honda Civic:

Step 6: Begin the Recharge Process

With the AC pressure gauge in view, slowly open the valve on the AC recharge hose. This will allow the refrigerant to flow into the AC system. Keep an eye on the pressure gauge and monitor the pressure level as you recharge the system.

It’s important to avoid overcharging the AC system. Overcharging can lead to poor cooling performance or damage to the AC components. If the pressure gauge shows that the system is already within the acceptable range, stop the recharge process.

Step 7: Recharge to the Recommended Pressure

Continue adding refrigerant to the AC system until the pressure gauge reaches the recommended range. The recommended pressure can vary depending on the ambient temperature, so refer to your car’s owner’s manual or consult a professional if you’re unsure.

Once the pressure gauge indicates that the system is at the correct pressure, close the valve on the AC recharge hose. Disconnect the recharge hose from the low-pressure port and securely replace the protective cap.

Step 8: Test the AC System

Now that you’ve recharged the AC on your 2017 Honda Civic, it’s time to test the system. Start the engine and turn on the AC to check if the air is blowing cold. Feel the air coming out of the vents to ensure it’s cooling as expected.

Congratulations! You have successfully recharged the AC on your 2017 Honda Civic. Enjoy your cool and comfortable rides!

Conclusion

Recharging the AC on your 2017 Honda Civic is a straightforward process that can help restore the cooling performance of your car’s air conditioning system. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure a comfortable and cool ride during hot summer days. Remember to always wear safety goggles and gloves when working with refrigerant, and consult your car’s owner’s manual or seek professional assistance if you have any doubts or concerns.

FAQs

1. How often should I recharge the AC on my 2017 Honda Civic?

The frequency of AC recharges depends on various factors, such as the condition of your AC system and how often you use it. As a general guideline, it’s recommended to recharge the AC every 1-2 years to maintain optimal cooling performance.

2. Can I use any refrigerant to recharge the AC on my Honda Civic?

No, it’s important to use a refrigerant that is compatible with your Honda Civic’s AC system. R-134a refrigerant is commonly used in most Honda vehicles, including the 2017 Honda Civic. Make sure to check your car’s owner’s manual or consult a professional to ensure you’re using the correct refrigerant.

3. What should I do if the AC pressure gauge shows high pressure during the recharge process?

If the AC pressure gauge indicates high pressure during the recharge process, it’s important to stop the recharge immediately. High pressure can be a sign of overcharging the system, which can lead to poor cooling performance or damage to the AC components. Consult a professional to diagnose and resolve any issues with the AC system.

4. Can I recharge the AC on my 2017 Honda Civic myself, or should I seek professional help?

Recharging the AC on your 2017 Honda Civic can be done by yourself if you have the necessary tools and materials. However, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with performing the recharge process, it’s recommended to seek professional help. A certified technician will have the expertise and knowledge to properly diagnose and service your car’s AC system.

5. Are there any precautions I should take when working with refrigerant?

When working with refrigerant, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. Always wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from potential refrigerant leaks or skin irritation. Additionally, make sure to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling any fumes. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to consult a professional.