Over this past weekend, I had the pleasure of working on a good friend of ours Jeep Patriot. It’s the 2013 model with the 2.4L engine. Its amazing how much better I have gotten at installing AC components since the first time I tried it back on my Honda several months ago. However, if you happen to own a Jeep Patriot 2013 or any of the years before or after one thing I will have to warn you about is the Traverse Engine (Sideways). My Honda is a similar setup however most Jeeps you won’t run into this problem because they 90% of the time feature the normal inline 6. If that is the case you won’t have much to worry about.
Tools You’ll Need:
Here’s a list of what is essential to do this kind of install:
- Socket or Wrench set w/ Extensions preferably.
- Flathead screwdriver
- Serpentine Belt Wrench (Rent from AutoZone)
- Note: 50 Dollar rental fee from AutoZone
- AC Guages and Vacuum (Rent from Autozone)
- Note: expect to pay around 300 dollars as a rental fee. You’ll receive it all back when you return items. Two cans of R-134A refrigerant.
- 4-5 hours of time set apart to do this install.
Step by Step install Summary
TAKE CAR TO MIDAS OR SOME OTHER MECHANIC TO HAVE ALL THE OLD REFRIGERANT RECYCLED!
- Jack up the car and remove the passenger side front tire.
- Take a flat head screwdriver and remove plastic push pins to gain access to the compressor.
- Remove electrical pigtail along with AC lines located towards the top of the compressor.
- Unbolt old compressor (3 Bolts) and replace with a new compressor. Only screw in two bolts halfway to secure location when tightening ac lines. Trust me you want the wiggle room.
- Remove front bumper. 8 screws along both front fender liners along with 6 screws at the top under hood connect the bumper to the frame. 4 Push pins holding plastic footwell pieces.
- Remove Drier and Evaporator and replace with pieces. If you can’t find either like me, call the dealership with the last 8 digits of your VIN number and they’ll be able to help you locate it.
Watch the video on how to recharge AC system.
Along with replacing all these major components, it’s even more important to replace the o-rings for each sealed connection to ensure you don’t have any leaks in the future.
