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:
Vehicle Hold
When Model 3 is stopped, Vehicle Hold can
continue to apply the brakes even after you
remove your foot from the brake pedal. When
driving on a hill or on a flat surface, brake as
you normally would. After coming to a
complete stop, simply press the brake pedal
again (until the touchscreen disp
Pipe - High Pressure - Compressor to Condenser- Remove
Remove
Raise and support the vehicle. See Raise Vehicle - 2 Post Lift.
Remove the 2nd row lower seat cushion. See Seat Cushion - Lower - 2nd
Row (Remove and Replace).
Remove the rear underhood apron. See Underhood Apron - Rear (Remove and
Replace).
Remove the cabin intake duct. See Duct -
