Audi HVAC

Heating,
Air Conditioning
and Climate Control
Systems
Operation and Diagnosis
Self-Study Program
Course Number 981203
Audi of America, Inc.

Service Training
Printed in U.S.A.
Printed 6/02
Course Number 981203
2002 Audi of America, Inc.
All rights reserved. Information contained
in this manual is based on the latest
information available at the time of printing and
is subject to the copyright and other intellectual
property rights of Audi of America, Inc., its
affiliated companies and its licensors.
All rights are reserved to make changes at any
time without notice. No part of this document
may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system, or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording or otherwise, nor may these
materials be modified or reposted to other
sites without the prior expressed written
permission of the publisher.
All requests for permission to copy and
redistribute information should be referred to
Always check Technical Bulletins and the
Audi
Worldwide
Repair
Information
System for information that may supersede
any information included in this booklet.
Table of Contents
Page
Course Goals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Personal Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Environmental and Legal Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Heating and Air Conditioning Basics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Heating, A/C and Climate Control Subsystems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Heat Transfer System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Air Distribution System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Electrical System and Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
On Board Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
A/C Refrigerant System Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Refrigerant System Performance Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Refrigerant System Diagnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Appendix 1: Application Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Appendix 2: Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Appendix 3: Quiz Answer Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Final Exam Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Course Goals
Course Goals
This course will enable you to:
Understand the environmental impact and legal concerns
related to the service of automotive air conditioning systems
Identify personal safety hazards related to working with
automotive heating and air conditioning systems
Apply the principles of heat transfer and temperature and
pressure relationships to the operation, service and repair
of Audi heating and air conditioning systems
Identify Audi air conditioning system control components,
sensors and actuators
Understand the use of the Refrigerant Recovery, Recycling
and Recharging System to recover, recycle, evacuate and
recharge Audi refrigerant systems
Understand performance testing and troubleshooting procedures for Audi air conditioning systems to determine
proper functioning
ii
Introduction
Introduction
Today, air conditioning is included as either a
standard or optional accessory by most auto
manufacturers. At one time, even heaters
were options and were not offered as standard equipment until the 1960s. Most states
now require automobile heaters for safety
reasons to at least defrost the windshield.
Most auto manufacturers today do not consider air conditioning a safety or performance
option, but rather a luxury choice. All current
model Audis sold in the United States and
Canada today include the Audi Automatic
Climate Control System.
Air conditioning has many benefits. It

increases passenger safety and reduces
fatigue by eliminating the buffeting caused
by wind at highway speeds. Wind buffeting,
uncomfortably high temperatures and humidity have negative effects on driver alertness.
With windows closed, vehicle aerodynamics
are improved for increased fuel economy
and vehicle performance. A comfortable interior environment and an alert driver are reasons enough for Audi to include air conditioning in every vehicle manufactured for our
market.
Personal Safety
Personal Safety
Warnings and Cautions
Servicing and repairing automotive heating

and air conditioning systems exposes the
technician to personal safety hazards.
Refrigerants and engine coolants are
under pressure and may be at very high
or low temperatures, creating the risk of
burns or frostbite.
Before beginning this course, it is important

to review potential hazards when working
with air conditioning systems. The Audi
Electronic Service Information System
(AESIS) contains a comprehensive list of
safety precautions and warnings. This section of the Self-Study Program summarizes
them.
Toxic and/or poisonous substances can

exist under some conditions.
Running engines have belts, pulleys and
other parts in motion, creating mechanical and electrical safety hazards.
Service and test equipment may contain
refrigerant under pressure and must be
used properly.
Repair Group 87 contains an extensive list of

warnings and cautions for the servicing of
heating and A/C systems. Read and understand these warnings and cautions before
starting diagnosis or repair work.
Warning and Caution boxes can be found
throughout AESIS to advise you of potential
hazards to your safety or to possible damage
to the vehicle. These Warnings and Cautions
are highlighted in RED.
WARNING!
Warnings in AESIS appear like this. They
alert you to potential dangers that could
cause personal injury or death.
CAUTION!
Cautions also appear in AESIS. They alert you
to situations that could cause damage to the
vehicle, tools or equipment.
A/C manifold pressure gauges
Personal Safety
Eye and Hand Protection
Automotive air conditioning systems are
under high pressure. When escaping liquid
refrigerant is exposed to atmospheric pressure, it evaporates quickly and absorbs so
much heat that it will freeze anything in contact. This is true for both refrigerants R-12
and R-134a.
Never open a charged A/C system before
recovering the refrigerant. An operating A/C
system can generate pressures up to 34.5
bar (500 psi). Use care when connecting
recovery and recharging equipment or manifold pressure gauges. A refrigerant leak can
spray in any direction with considerable
force and the skin can be frostbitten when
contacted with vaporizing refrigerant.
Vaporizing refrigerant can cause frostbite
Blindness may result if refrigerant

sprays in your eyes. Always use
approved eye protection conforming to ANSI standard Z87.1.
Personal Safety
Ventilation
Refrigerants R-12 and R-134a are considered
non-toxic in their gaseous state, however
they displace Oxygen and are a suffocation
hazard. Refrigerants are heavier than air and
collect in low areas with poor air circulation
such as under the car.
Refrigerant container
Turn on an exhaust/ventilation
system when working on the
refrigerant system. Avoid breathing refrigerant vapors that may
escape when connecting or disconnecting service equipment.
Exposure may irritate eyes, nose
or throat.
Danger of High Temperatures

Do not expose air conditioning system components to temperatures above 80C (176F).
Pressure increases from high temperatures
may cause the system to burst and release
refrigerant.
Condenser
Store refrigerant containers at temperatures

below 50C (122F). When charging an A/C
system, do not heat containers with an open
flame to warm them. Use only warm water
to raise the temperature of refrigerant containers.
Do not steam clean condensers

or evaporators. The added heat
can cause a dangerous increase
in refrigerant pressures. Use only
cold water or compressed air to
remove dirt from the cooling fins.
Evaporator
Personal Safety
Danger of Open Flames
Although refrigerant R-12 is not combustible,
it will produce poisonous phosgene gas
when burned. Be aware that an R-12 leak
near the engine's air intake will likely cause
the refrigerant to be burned in the combustion chamber.
The Kent-Moore ACR4 Refrigerant

Recovery/Recycling/ Recharging
station will be used as an example in this Self-Study Program.
Other manufacturers' systems
are similar.
R-134a is not generally considered to be

combustible, however at pressures above
ambient and mixed with excess air, it can
become flammable. Do not use compressed
air to blow out A/C refrigerant components
or containers unless all of the refrigerant has
been recovered and the component has
been completely removed from the refrigerant circuit.
Danger of Overfilling Refrigerant

Containers
By law, containers used for recovered refrigerant may be filled to no more than 60% of
capacity. A "gas space" above the liquid
refrigerant is necessary to allow refrigerant
vapors to expand. Overfilling refrigerant
tanks can cause internal pressures to rise
dangerously high and create a risk of explosion.
Unit
tank
Disposable
refrigerant
container
Most Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling/

Recharging Systems will automatically shut
off when the unit tank reaches 60% of
capacity.
Only use approved containers to recover
refrigerant. Do not reuse disposable refrigerant containers to store refrigerants.
Scale
ACR4 recovery, recycling and

recharging system
Personal Safety
Charging Refrigerant Systems
For safety, most recharging stations recharge
A/C systems by pumping the refrigerant into
the system with the compressor not running. Make sure that the high side gauge
valve is always closed whenever the compressor is running.
High side
service valve
Low side
service valve
High side
hose (red)
A4
Low side
hose (blue)
Do not attempt to recharge a

refrigerant system with the high
pressure service fitting open and
the compressor running.
Pressures in the high side of a
running system are high enough
to cause charging equipment and
refrigerant storage tanks to
explode.
ACR4 recovery, recycling
and recharging system
Personal Safety
I
400
I
I
I
500
0
P SI
SI G
600
III I I
IIIIII
I
IIII
300
100
IIIII
I
Service valves closed
I I
I
400
100
I
500
0
600
G
P SI
III I I
IIIIII
I
IIII
300
I I I I
S
IN-H G /P
200
I 50 60
70
40
80
30
90
20
0
1
100
0
110
10
120
20
30
IG
I
IIIII
I
The gauges read system pressure at all

times regardless of the position of the hand
valves.
I I I I
The only purpose of the hand valves is to

open a connection between the red or blue
Service Hoses and the Manifold Center Port.
The Manifold Center Port is only used when
discharging, evacuating or recharging the
system. All other times, the hand valves are
closed.
IN-H G /P
200
Manifold pressure gauges read refrigerant

pressure on the high and low sides of the
system. The low side gauge is a compound
gauge and reads both pressure and vacuum.
I I
I 50 60
70
40
80
30
90
20
10
100
0
110
10
120
20
30
Safe Use of Manifold Pressure Gauges
Service Fittings
Fittings for R-134a service equipment are different from those used on R-12 systems.
This is to prevent cross-contamination of
refrigerants. Mixed refrigerants cannot be
reused and become hazardous waste that
must be disposed of properly.
R-134a service equipment uses quick connect fittings to minimize the discharge of
refrigerant when connecting and disconnecting the hoses.
R-12 service equipment uses threaded fittings and hand shut-off valves to contain
refrigerant in the lines. By law, the shut-off
valves must be placed no more than 12 inches from the ends of the service hoses to
reduce refrigerant loss.
Service valves open
R-134a high side service fitting
R-134a low side service fitting
R-134a quick-connect couplers
Personal Safety
Heating System Safety
The engine cooling system is pressurized to
raise the boiling point of the coolant. Engine
coolant temperatures can exceed the boiling
point of water at sea level pressure. Use
care when working around the radiator,
heater core and hoses with the engine at
operating temperature.
0.5 1.0
1.5
0
Hot coolant and coolant vapors

can cause serious burns. Hot
coolant will also tend to remain
on your skin since it does not
evaporate as readily as water.
Cooling system pressure tester
When removing the pressure cap from the

expansion tank, relieve pressure slowly to
prevent hot coolant from spraying out. Wear
gloves and cover the cap with a shop rag to
reduce spraying of coolant.
Electric Cooling Fans

Coolant fan
All current production Audis use electric

coolant fans actuated by coolant temperature. These fans will come on when coolant
temperatures exceed a certain value. See
repair information for specifications.
Use caution when working near

these fans. Cooling fans can run
at any time, including with ignition OFF.
Coolant fan control

thermal switch
1998 A6
Environmental and Legal Responsibilities

Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling
The Clean Air Act of 1990 required that, as
of January 1, 1992, technicians servicing
automotive air conditioning refrigerant systems be certified and use EPA certified
recovery and recycling equipment.
Recovery and Recycling certification programs are available from ASE, the Mobile Air
Conditioning Society (MACS) and other organizations. The course materials prepare the
technician for the ASE Refrigerant Recovery
and Recycling Review and Quiz and also
administer the test.
ACR3 for R-12

refrigerant
KENT-MOORE
Both refrigerants R-12 and R-134a must be

recovered by law. Dealership service departments are required to have EPA certified
recovery and recycling equipment available.
R-134a and R-12 refrigerants must not be
mixed. Cross-contamination and possible
damage to equipment will result from recovering and recycling the wrong refrigerant.
ACR4 for R-134a

refrigerant
Review Questions
Review Questions - Personal
Safety, Environmental and Legal
Responsibilities
1. A refrigerant leak can cause
which of the following safety
hazards?
a. Frostbite
b. Suffocation
4. Discharging refrigerant into the

atmosphere:
a. is OK to do with R-134a because it
doesn't harm the ozone layer.
c. Blindness
b. is unavoidable from charging

equipment hoses.
d. All of the above
c. is illegal for both R-12 and R-134a.

d. is OK after it has been recycled.
2. When is it safe to open the

high side service valve on a
manifold gauge set?
a. When charging the system with
the engine running and the
compressor on
b. When recovering refrigerant with
the engine running and the
compressor on
c. When evacuating the system with
the engine and compressor off
d. When checking the high side
pressure with the engine running
and the compressor on
3. Refrigerant containers used for
recovering and recycling
refrigerant that have been filled
to 60% of their capacity:
a. can be used to recover more
refrigerant.
b. are at their safe maximum capacity.
c. do not have enough refrigerant to
be effectively recycled.
d. may cause internal pressures to
rise dangerously high.
10
5. Mixing R-134a with R-12:

a. creates a hazardous waste.
b. is OK after they have been
separately recycled.
c. is possible because the equipment
used to service both refrigerants
use the same service fittings.
d. is unavoidable because the same
recovery machine is used for both.
Notes
11
Heating and Air Conditioning Basics

Introduction
There are four principles of heat and heat
transfer that apply to automotive heating, air
conditioning and climate control systems:
1. Heat always flows from hot to cold.
2. Materials absorb or give off large
amounts of heat when changing state.
3. The pressure of a liquid or gas varies
with its temperature and the temperature
of a liquid or gas varies with its pressure
4. The boiling point of a liquid varies with its
pressure
Becoming familiar with these principles will
help you understand the operation of the
systems responsible for this transfer of heat
energy. More importantly, this knowledge
will help you to diagnose these systems
when they do not function properly.
12
Air Conditioning and Refrigeration

Simplified
In simple terms, heat generated in one area
of the vehicle is transported to another area
to raise or lower the temperature of the air
in the vehicle interior. The A/C system is a
closed loop in which a refrigerant is pumped
by the compressor through the circuit over
and over. While it is being pumped, the
refrigerant changes state from liquid to gas
and back again. The refrigerant changes from
liquid to gas in the evaporator and removes
heat from the passenger compartment. The
refrigerant gas condenses back to liquid in
the condenser, giving off heat to ambient
(outside) air. The restrictor or expansion valve
creates a restriction against which the compressor pumps to create high pressure. All
of these concepts will be discussed in detail
later in this Self-Study Program.

Principles of Heat Transfer and
Temperature/Pressure
Relationships
1. Heat always flows from hot to
cold.
Heat is a form of energy. Cold is a term that
simply means a lack of heat. Cold materials
have less heat energy than hot materials and
heat always flows from the hotter material to
the colder.
For example, if you hold an ice cube, your
hand will feel cold. The ice cube will remove
heat from your hand and you sense the loss
of heat. If you touch something warm, you
feel the heat flowing into your hand. If a
large amount of heat transfers, you may be
burned and feel pain.
Evaporator
This principle is demonstrated in two places

in an air conditioning refrigeration circuit.
First, heat energy contained in the passenger compartment air is absorbed by the cold
refrigerant in the A/C evaporator. Second, in
the condenser, hot refrigerant is cooled by
cooler ambient air flowing through the condenser. In both cases, heat moves from hotter to cooler.
Condenser
13

2. Materials absorb or give off large
amounts of heat when changing
state.
Water evaporating on our skin makes us feel
cold because the process of evaporation
removes body heat. In a similar way, refrigerant vaporizing (changing from liquid to gas)
inside the evaporator of the A/C system
absorbs heat from the warmer air passing
through the evaporator.
Conditions created in the evaporator cause
the liquid refrigerant to boil at temperatures
below the ambient temperature of the air in
the passenger compartment. By boiling, the
refrigerant absorbs very large quantities of
heat. The refrigerant absorbs far more heat
than it would if it remained a liquid.
In the condenser, the reverse takes place.
Here, hot refrigerant gas gives off large
amounts of heat to the atmosphere as it
condenses back to liquid. The refrigerant
gives up far more heat than it would if it
remained a gas. To explain why this is so, we
need to look at two kinds of heat energy:
Sensible Heat is measurable heat - a measurable change in the temperature of a
material. Adding heat energy to raise the
temperature of a material increases Sensible
Heat. For example, if we heat a pot of water
on a stove, the temperature of the water will
increase and we can measure this change
with a thermometer. However, there is
another kind of heat energy.
14
Latent Heat is heat energy that is added to a

material causing it to change state. The temperature of the material remains the same
during the change of state. We can add
Sensible Heat energy to a pot of water and
raise its temperature to almost boiling, or
100C (212F) at sea level. But to make the
water boil and change state from liquid to
gas, it takes much more heat energy in the
form of Latent Heat. The amount of Latent
Heat energy required to change the state of
a material is much greater than the amount
of Sensible Heat energy required to simply
raise its temperature. Similarly, when a gas
condenses to a liquid, a large amount of
Latent Heat energy is released.
Latent Heat energy causes only

the change of state from solid to
liquid or liquid to gas. The measurable or sensible temperature
of the material DOES NOT
CHANGE.
Large amounts of heat energy are
absorbed or released when a
material changes state.

The unit of heat energy is the BTU (British
Thermal Unit). One BTU = the amount of
heat energy required to raise the temperature of one pound of water one degree F. At
sea level pressure, water boils at 212F. In
order to raise the temperature of one pound
of water at 211F by one degree to 212F,
only one BTU heat energy is needed. But to
change that same one pound of water at
212F to one pound of steam (gas) at 212F
requires 970 BTUs, a much greater quantity
of heat. When the water condenses back to
a liquid, it gives off the same 970 BTUs of
heat.
Evaporator
In the A/C system, the refrigerant is allowed

to evaporate and condense over and over as
it is pumped through the system. As the
refrigerant changes from liquid to gas and
back again it absorbs and releases large
amounts of latent heat energy with each
change. R-134a refrigerant absorbs or gives
off about 85 BTU/lb as it changes state in
the refrigerant cycle.
15

3. The pressure of a liquid or gas
varies with its temperature and the
temperature of a liquid or gas
varies with its pressure
R-134a Refrigerant pressure vs. temperature
Refrigerant pressure in the closed A/C circuit

will vary with changes in temperature. The
temperature of the refrigerant varies with
pressure. For example, with A/C off and at
an ambient temperature of 68F, the pressure in a fully charged system will be approximately 68 psi. If the temperature rises, the
pressure will also rise. The table shows the
temperature/pressure relationship for temperatures between -22F and 158F. At -22F
refrigerant pressure is 0 psi. At this temperature, liquid refrigerant in an open container
will not boil and will remain a liquid.
Degrees Fahrenheit and pounds per square
inch units of measure are used to make this
point. The numerical relationship at room
temperature is convenient for checking a
refrigerant charge. A/C pressure gauges are
typically scaled with these units.
The A/C compressor compresses refrigerant
gas, raising pressure and temperature and
concentrating the heat. The refrigerant flows
to the condenser where it is much hotter
than the ambient air blowing through and
gives up latent heat to the air.
A/C compressor
Arrow points toward evaporator

in direction of flow
Restrictor
16
In the evaporator, refrigerant is exposed to

low pressure. This lowers its temperature
and the cold refrigerant absorbs latent heat
from the passenger compartment.
Note the temperatures of the A/C lines
when the A/C is on. The high pressure lines
will be warm or hot, the low pressure lines
will be cool or cold.

4. The boiling point of a liquid
varies with its pressure
Raising the pressure of a liquid also raises
its boiling point. The automotive cooling system is an example of this principle. Engine
coolant temperatures can easily climb above
the boiling point of the coolant-water mixture
at sea level pressure, but pressurizing the
system raises the temperature at which the
coolant will boil.
The boiling point of a 50/50 mixture of
coolant and water is about 108C (226F) at
sea level pressure, but increasing the pressure to 1 bar (15 psi) raises the boiling point
to 128C (263F).
When the A/C system is operating, the pressure on the refrigerant in the evaporator is
low, which lowers its boiling point. This causes the refrigerant to boil and change state to
a gas, absorbing latent heat.
0.5 1.0
1.5
0
Cooling system pressure tester
In the condenser, the pressure of refrigerant

gas is high, raising the boiling point and
allowing it to condense to liquid as heat is
removed.
17

R-134a refrigerant exists as a gas at atmospheric pressures and ambient temperatures, but in the closed refrigerant circuit,
some of it is in liquid form because of the
higher pressure. As with water, the boiling
point of refrigerant increases as its pressure
increases.
Pressures below atmospheric (partial vacuum) lower the boiling point of water also.
The table shows the boiling point of water at
several low pressures. The value 29.92 in.
Hg is atmospheric pressure at sea level. At
this pressure, the boiling point of water is
the familiar 100C (212F). At higher altitudes, such as in Denver, the boiling point is
lower. This is why baking or cooking times
are longer at high altitudes.
Vapor pressure curve
Vacuum
in. Hg
Atmospheric
Pressure
Vacuum
On the table, note the low pressure at which

water will boil at room temperature (shown
in bold). This low pressure or partial vacuum
is easily attained during the evacuation
phase of refrigerant system service. At this
low pressure, any water in the A/C system
will boil off. The importance of this will be
discussed in the A/C Refrigerant System
Service section.
Absolute Pressure
in. Hg
0
15.94
24.04
27.75
29.12
29.52
Water boiling point vs. pressure
18
Review Questions
Review Questions - Heating and Air
Conditioning Basics
1. Which component in the A/C
system absorbs heat energy?
a. Condenser
b. Restrictor
c. Evaporator
d. A/C Compressor
4. The ambient air temperature is

20C (68 F). What should you
expect to see for pressure in an
A/C system that is in a static
condition (compressor not
running).
a. About 68 psi
b. 22 Bar
2. Which component in the A/C

system gives off heat energy?
a. Condenser
b. Restrictor
c. Evaporator
d. A/C Compressor
3. What happens when the
refrigerant enters the
evaporator?
a. Refrigerant temperature increases
causing the refrigerant to boil and
change state.
b. Heat is absorbed from the air surrounding the evaporator.
c. There is a drop in refrigerant pressure.
c. 29.92 in. Hg
d. 0 psi
5. You travel from sea level to a
city in the mountains at an
altitude of 1500 m (4921 ft.).
Which one of the following is
true?
a. It takes longer to boil an egg.
b. Water boils at a lower temperature.
c. Starting with the same water
temperature, it takes more BTUs
to heat the pot of water to boiling
in the mountains than it does at
sea level.
d. Both a and b are correct
d. Both b and c are correct.
19
Heating, A/C and Climate Control Subsystems

Introduction
Heating, air conditioning and climate control
systems can be broken down into three subsystems.
1. Heat Transfer System
The Heat Transfer System moves and transports heat energy between the passenger
compartment and outside air.
3. Electrical System & Controls

The Electrical System & Controls System
provides management and control functions.
All three subsystems must function correctly for good A/C system performance.
2. Air Distribution System

The Air Distribution System controls airflow
within the passenger compartment and
helps to regulate air direction, volume and
temperature.
Heat transfer system
Air distribution system
Electrical system
20
Heating, A/C and Climate Control Subsystems

Heat Transfer System
The Heat Transfer System consists of the
components responsible for moving heat
into and out of the passenger compartment.
For comfort, heat can be removed from, or
added to the interior.
Heating System
Heat is a by-product of the combustion process in the engine, and some of this heat
energy can be used to add heat to the vehicle interior if desired. Heat energy is transferred from the engine block to the coolant,
which is circulated by the coolant pump.
Coolant
thermostat
The heated coolant gives up some of its

heat in the radiator in order to regulate
engine operating temperature and also to
provide heat to the vehicle interior.
The major components in the heating system are the engine, radiator, expansion tank,
coolant pump, thermostat, heater core, system cap, lines, hoses and coolant. Some
models use electronic thermostats.
1 2 3
Heater core
Coolant
pump
4 5 6
Radiator
Expansion tank
V6 Coolant Circuit
21

Heater Core Coolant Flow
On current Audi A4, A6 (1998>) and TT models, hot coolant is pumped continuously
through the heater core when the engine is
running. When more interior heat is required,
it is immediately available once the engine,
cooling system and heater core are up to
operating temperature.
The heater core and A/C evaporator are
located in the air distribution housing. Before
the air reaches the heater core, it first passes through the A/C evaporator. If the A/C is
running, the air is not only cooled, but also
dehumidified. Moisture in the air condenses
on the cold evaporator fins. This reduces the
amount of moisture entering the interior,
allowing faster defrost and a less humid,
more comfortable environment.
The blower fan promotes air flow through

the heater core and evaporator in the air
distribution housing. The warmed air is then
directed to the desired vents and locations
as selected by the controls to provide heat.
The design and operation of the air distribution housing will be discussed in detail in the
Air Distribution System section.
Heater core
Blower fan housing

Evaporator
Air distribution housing
22

Audi 100/S4 and A6/S6 models through
1997 have a vacuum controlled shutoff
valve. This valve is normally open, allowing
coolant to flow to the heater core.
A vacuum solenoid valve applies vacuum to
the shutoff valve to stop coolant flow
through the heater core. This valve is only
closed when max A/C is selected.
Engine coolant
2-way vacuum
valve -N147-
The A8 model has two heater cores to provide individual temperature control for the
driver and passenger. Two solenoid valves
regulate coolant flow to control temperature.
An electric coolant pump is also used to circulate coolant through the heater cores
when the engine is running, and also during
the "Rest" function. Pressing the Rest button
on the control head with the engine off will
turn on the electric coolant pump to circulate coolant through the heater cores to
keep the interior warm.
Left heat regulating

valve -N175-
Engine coolant
shutoff valve
Vacuum controlled shutoff valve for

100/S4 and A6/S6 through 1997
Right heat regulating

valve -N176-
Coolant pump
-V50-
A8 Coolant pump and solenoids
Passenger side
heater core
Driver's side
heater core
A8 heater core assembly
23

The Refrigeration System
Look at the restrictor system configuration
diagram and note the main components and
their relationship to one another. We will
describe the flow of refrigerant and how heat
is moved from one place to another.
Each component will be described in detail
later in this section.
The A/C refrigeration system transports heat

from one place to another using the four
principles of heat transfer and
temperature/pressure relationships that were
previously discussed. It does this by pumping
refrigerant through a closed loop where the
refrigerant cycles over and over.
Audi uses two main types of A/C systems:
restrictor systems and expansion valve
systems. We will look at the restrictor type
system first. All current production Audi
models except TT use restrictor A/C systems.
Cool low pressure refrigerant gas leaves

the evaporator, pulled by the suction
(intake) side of the compressor. The
refrigerant flows into the accumulator
and is drawn into the compressor, where
it is compressed and cycled again. As
the refrigerant gas is compressed, its
temperature also increases, and the
cycle repeats as long as the compressor
operates.
Pressure
H
Gas
Gas
Temperature
Refrigerant temperature and pressure

are increased by compressor.
The refrigerant cycle begins at the
compressor, which is a pump. Refrigerant
enters the compressor as a low pressure,
low temperature gas. The refrigerant gas
is compressed, raising its temperature,
pressure and boiling point. The compressor pumps this high pressure, high
temperature gas to the condenser.
1
D
A
B
2
Pressure
Liquid
Gas
Temperature
Refrigerant temperature drops as the

refrigerant gives up heat in the
condenser. When sufficient heat is
removed, the refrigerant condenses
from a gas to a liquid.
At the condenser, large amounts of
Latent Heat are removed from the
high pressure, hot refrigerant gas.
The heat is transferred to cooler
ambient air passing through. The
refrigerant gas changes state and
condenses to a liquid as this Latent
Heat is removed.
24
1
Compression
Max. pressure 20 bar (290 psi)
Max. temperature 70C (158F)
Condensation
Max. pressure 20 bar (290 psi)
Temperature reduction: approx. 10C (18F)
5
Liquid
Pressure
The component parts:

A Compressor with magnetic clutch
B High-pressure switch
C Condenser
D High pressure service connection
E Restrictor
F Evaporator
G Low-pressure service connection
H Accumulator
Gas
Temperature
Once the refrigerant has changed

state from liquid to gas, it continues
to absorb heat and the temperature
of the gas increases.
At typical evaporator temperatures of
0-5C (32-40F) and at low pressure, the
refrigerant boils rapidly. It changes state
and vaporizes to become a gas and in
doing so, absorbs much Latent Heat.
This makes the evaporator cold. The heat
absorbed is extracted from the passenger compartment air, which is cooled
as it passes over the cold evaporator fins.
4
E
F
Pressure
Liquid
3
The refrigerant leaves the condenser a
cooler, but still warm high-pressure
liquid. In restrictor systems, the liquid
refrigerant flows directly to the restrictor,
which controls the amount of refrigerant
admitted into the evaporator.
4
Expansion
From 20 bar (290 psi) to > 1.5 bar (22 psi)
Temperature: from 60C (140F) to > -4C (25F)
Gas
Temperature
Refrigerant pressure drops as the

liquid refrigerant passes through the
restrictor orifice.
High pressure liquid refrigerant sprays
into the evaporator through the controlling orifice in the restrictor. The orifice
allows pressure to drop significantly, and
in the evaporator, the liquid refrigerant is
now exposed to low pressure. This
lowers the refrigerant's boiling point and
temperature and promotes a change of
state from liquid to gas, or evaporation.
6
Evaporation
Max. pressure> 0.15 bar (22 psi)
Temperature: > -4C (25F)
1
Note: all temperatures and
pressures are approximate.
See service information.
25

The Refrigeration Cycle - Expansion
Valve System
Audi TTs use expansion valve type systems.
The refrigeration cycle for expansion valve
systems is similar to the cycle in restrictor
systems. System components for expansion
valve systems are similar, with two differences.
First, an expansion valve replaces the restrictor. Where the restrictor is a fixed orifice, the
expansion valve has a variable orifice. Both
devices control refrigerant flow into the
evaporator, and both separate high pressure
and low pressure sides of the system.
Second, where restrictor systems have a

reservoir called an accumulator located on
the low pressure side, expansion valve systems have a reservoir called a receiver dryer
located on the high pressure side.
Look at the expansion valve system and
compare it with the restrictor system.
Expansion valve
Cooled fresh air
Low-pressure side
Evaporator
High-pressure side
Warm fresh air
Compressor
Receiver Drier
Cooling air
26
Condenser

High Side and Low Side
The refrigerant circuit is divided into high
pressure and low pressure sections. These
are commonly referred to as the "high side"
and "low side" or Suction (S) for the low side
and Discharge (D) for the high side. The two
sides of the system are separated by the
compressor and either the restrictor or
expansion valve. The condenser is always on
the high pressure side and the evaporator is
always on the low pressure side.
Restrictor
Condenser
A/C
Compressor
Expansion
Valve
Receiver
Dryer
Condenser
High Side
High side
Low Side
Low side
Evaporator
Evaporator
Muffler
A/C
Compressor
Accumulator
Restrictor tube system
Expansion valve system
27

A/C System Components
Refrigerants
The refrigerant is the substance that is continuously cycled through the closed system.
It absorbs and releases heat, moving it from
one location to another.
R-134a is the refrigerant used today. The
trade name is SUVA and the chemical name
is Tetraflouroethane. R-134a is a HFC or
Hydrofluorocarbon compound that lacks the
Chlorine present in R-12. R-134a has 84%
less global warming potential than R-12, and
it does not destroy Ozone high in the stratosphere like R-12. Ozone in the stratosphere
blocks and protects us from the sun's ultraviolet radiation. For these reasons, R-134a has
been judged to be better for the environment.
R-134a refrigerant
All Audis manufactured since 1994 use R134a. R-134a is the only approved refrigerant, and the only approved replacement for
refrigerant R-12.
Refrigerant R-12 is no longer being produced. The trade name for R-12 is FREON,
and the chemical name is
Dichlorodiflouromethane. R-12 is a
Chlorofluorocarbon or CFC containing
Chlorine.
R-134a and R-12 refrigerants must not be
mixed. Cross-contamination and possible
damage to equipment will result from recovering or recycling the wrong refrigerant. To
reduce the possibility of error, storage tanks
are different colors (light blue for R-134a and
white for R-12), and tank fittings are a different design.
28

Compressors
The compressor is a refrigerant pump driven
by a ribbed serpentine belt. Most compressors use an electro-magnetic clutch to
engage and disengage the drive.
All Audi A/C compressors in current production are either wobble plate or swash plate
designs which convert the rotation of the
compressor shaft to axial piston motion.
Between three and ten pistons can be
arranged concentrically around the central
shaft. Audi has used both fixed and variable
displacement compressors.
Reed
valve
Compressor Operation
Low pressure gas from the evaporator is
drawn into the compressor as the piston
travels downward. Both pressure and temperature of the refrigerant is raised on the
piston's upstroke. The compressed refrigerant is pushed toward the condenser. The
compressor can raise the pressure of the
refrigerant because it is pumping against a
restriction: either the restrictor or expansion
valve. This creates the system high side.
The intake and outlet of the refrigerant gas is
controlled in the compressor by reed valves.
Reed valves are flat leaves of spring material
located in the cylinder head above each piston. They are allowed to bend one way only,
making a one-way valve. They open and
close automatically in response to pressure
changes as the pistons travel up and down.
The reeds are intended to pump gas only,
and the compressor pistons have little or no
clearance at the top of their stroke. Liquid
refrigerant must be kept out of the compressor; it is possible to "slug" or hydraulic lock a
compressor and damage it. Cautions during
servicing will be discussed later in the
Refrigerant System Service section.
Reed valve closed
Reed valve open
29

Fixed Displacement Compressors
Wobble plate
Piston
Drive hub
Suction
Discharge
Piston A is on suction stroke

Piston B is at end of discharge stroke
Compression
Fixed displacement compressors always

pump the same volume of refrigerant per
revolution. Wobble plate compressors have
pistons attached to the wobble plate through
ball and socket joints and connecting rods.
An angled drive hub attached to the compressor drive shaft forces the wobble-plate
to oscillate, but not rotate. The pistons are
pulled and pushed back and forth in the
cylinders, drawing in refrigerant vapor from
the low side, compressing this gas and
pumping it into the high side. The piston
stroke never varies and the compressor's
displacement also never changes. The operation of the compressor is shown in three
illustrations.
Variable Displacement Compressors

Suction
Piston A during compression stroke

Piston B is on suction stroke
Discharge
Suction
Piston A is at end of discharge stroke

Piston B is on suction stroke
30
Variable displacement compressors can

change their output volume. These compressors sense system refrigerant pressures to
determine heat load and automatically adjust
refrigerant flow for optimum heat transfer.
The length of the piston stroke determines
the displacement of the compressor. The
longer the piston stroke, the greater the displacement or output. The stroke is determined by the angle of the wobble plate.
Variable displacement compressors change
the angle of the wobble plate to match the
refrigerant flow rate to the heat load on the
system.
Current Audi models use Sanden, Zexel and
Denso variable displacement compressors.
The Zexel internally controlled variable displacement compressor is described here.
Sanden and Denso compressors are similar.
Denso also supplies a compressor with an
externally controlled valve. Refer to the
Electrical System & Controls section for
description.

Variable displacement compressor
(Zexel) with Internal Valve
The Zexel internally controlled variable displacement compressor is a single-acting
seven cylinder wobble plate design. By varying its displacement, the compressor automatically adjusts system pressures in
response to changes in engine RPM and
heat load. The compressor does this by altering the angle of the wobble plate, which in
turn changes the stroke on the pistons.
Under periods of high heat load, the stroke
is increased for greater displacement. If
the heat load goes down, the stroke is
decreased. Displacement can vary from 5%
to 100% of capacity.
31

High displacement and delivery rate
for high cooling capacity - low chamber pressure
The high and low side system pressures
are relatively high.
Bellows 2 is compressed by the high
system high side pressure.
Bellows 1 is also compressed by the
relatively high low side pressure.
Regulating valve opens and vents
chamber to system low side pressure.
Chamber pressure is reduced.
32
The combined force resulting from the

relatively high pressure acting upon the
top side of the pistons and the force of
spring 1 is greater than the combined
force resulting from the low chamber
pressure acting upon the under side of
the pistons and the force of spring 2.
Inclination of wobble plate increases =
large stroke with high delivery rate

Low displacement and delivery rate
for low cooling capacity - high chamber pressure
The high and low side system pressures
are relatively low.
Bellows 2 is not compressed because of
lower high side system pressure.
Bellows 1 also is not compressed as a
result of the relatively low low side
pressure.
Regulating valve closes and system low
side pressure raises chamber pressure
via the calibrated restrictor bore.
The combined force resulting from the

relatively low pressure acting upon the
top side of the pistons and the force of
spring 1 is less than the combined force
resulting from the high chamber pressure
acting upon the under side of the pistons
plus the force of spring 2.
Inclination of wobble plate decreases =
small stroke with low delivery rate.
33

(Denso)
The Denso (formerly Nippondenso) variable
displacement compressor is a single-acting
seven cylinder swash plate design. It is similar in function to the Zexel wobble plate compressor.
Audi has used Denso variable displacement

compressors with internal valve to control
displacement. These compressors are similar
in operation to Zexel variable displacement
compressors with internal valve.
In swash plate compressors, the angled

plate rotates with the compressor shaft. The
plate has smooth surfaces on both sides.
Slipper shoes follow the plate's motion and
transmit reciprocating forces to the pistons.
The angle of the swash plate can vary, allowing compressor displacement to change.
Denso compressors with internal valves have

a thermal fuse built into the A/C clutch that
will melt and open the clutch circuit if the
compressor overheats from excessive pressures.
Regulating Valve -N280-
Some new vehicles use Denso compressors with

externally controlled solenoid valves to control compressor displacement. See the Electrical System &
Controls section.
Piston
Swash plate
Low pressure
Chamber pressure
High pressure
34
Denso compressor

Pressure relief valve
Zexel and Denso A/C compressors have a
spring loaded mechanical pressure relief
valve. If system pressures get dangerously
high, the valve will open and vent the excess
pressure. The valve closes when pressures
have dropped to safe levels to prevent the
complete loss of refrigerant.
Opening pressure is approximately 38 bar
(550 psi). The valve will close when pressures have dropped to approximately 30-35
bar (435-508 psi).
Zexel compressors have a round piece of
adhesive tape on the end of the valve. If the
valve has released pressure, the tape will be
pushed out to provide a visual indication of
release.
However, on Denso compressors there is no
tape on the end of the valve to indicate
whether the system has released excess
pressure.
Zexel pressure relief valve
Denso pressure relief valve
Removal of the pressure relief valve first

requires recovery of the refrigerant from the
system.
35

Lubrication
The compressor requires oil for lubrication.
The oil reduces internal friction and heat and
helps to seal moving parts. This lubricant is
carried throughout the system by the refrigerant, and must be compatible with all seals
and components used.
Compressor
50%
10%
10%
10%
Condenser
Fluid container
20%
Suction hose
Evaporator
PAG oil distribution in A/C system
Audi R-134a systems use PAG oil (polyalkylene glycol) for lubrication. R-12 systems
used mineral oil and these oils are not compatible. Also, mineral oil will not mix with R134a refrigerant and must not be used in R134a systems.
Since the oil is carried along with the refrigerant throughout the system, a portion of
the total oil charge must also be replaced
when a component is replaced. Some oil
may also be removed when discharging a
system. A/C service stations like the ACR4
have provisions for capturing and measuring
any oil removed so that an equal amount can
be restored. Refer to service information for
specifications regarding the amount of oil to
add for each system component.
Follow instructions for the equipment you are using to inject

fresh oil. Most charging equipment will use the vacuum created during the evacuation process
to draw oil into the refrigerant
system. Do not add too much oil!
Audi specifies more than one
type of PAG oil. Be sure to properly identify the compressor used
in the system and consult the
service information for the correct oil.
36

Condenser
The condenser is a heat exchanger located in
front of the engine cooling radiator. It is similar to the engine radiator and provides a
large surface area for efficient heat transfer.
The purpose of the condenser is to allow the
high pressure, hot refrigerant gas to give off
heat energy to cooler air passing through the
condenser. Both forward motion of the vehicle and fans promote this air flow.
High pressure refrigerant enters the condenser as a hot gas. The heat energy
absorbed in the evaporator is transferred to
the cooler air passing over the condenser's
tubes and fins. The refrigerant gas gives up
its Latent Heat energy to the cooler ambient
air and the gas changes state and condenses to a liquid. The refrigerant leaves the condenser as a very warm liquid.
The electric radiator fan turns on when the

A/C system is on to draw air through the
condenser to improve the heat transfer. Air
guides are used to direct airflow throughout
the condenser. Be sure air guides are always
in place. They force air to flow through the
condenser instead of around it. Missing air
guides can cause higher refrigerant temperatures and pressures and reduced cooling
efficiency. This can also add additional heat
load on the engine cooling system.
Condensers for the R-134a systems are different from those used on the R-12 systems. The R-134a condensers are parallel
flow flat tube units with inserts in the tubes
to transfer heat more efficiently than the single flow condensers used on the R-12 systems. Since these new designs are more
efficient, R-134a condenser size and volume
has been reduced compared to R-12 condensers.
Air guides
Radiator
Condenser
m.y. 1997 A4
37

Evaporator
The evaporator is another heat exchanger in
the A/C system. This component is located
in the air distribution housing under the
instrument panel and has a large surface
area for efficient heat transfer.
The purpose of the evaporator is to permit
the refrigerant to absorb heat from the passenger compartment. Air is forced through
the air distribution housing by a blower, and
the amount of air flowing through the evaporator and heater core can be controlled.
Audi now uses plate and fin evaporators. The
tubing is hydraulically expanded into the fins
to ensure good thermal conductivity. This
new design has the same capacity and cooling surface area as older designs but is 40%
smaller.
Heater core housing

Fresh air intake
Air flow flap
Fresh air/recirculation
air flap
Temperature flap
Evaporator
Footwell/defroster
flap
Central flap
A4 air distribution housing
38

Liquid, high pressure refrigerant sprays into
the evaporator through the orifice in either
the expansion valve or restrictor. This orifice
allows pressure to drop, and the liquid refrigerant is now exposed to low pressure. At
this low pressure, the refrigerant boils rapidly and changes state. As the refrigerant
becomes a gas it absorbs Latent Heat from
the air passing through the evaporator.
The refrigerant leaves the evaporator as a
cool low pressure gas, pulled by the suction
(intake) side of the compressor. This low side
pressure will be approximately 2 bar (30 psi).
Check service information for exact system
pressure specifications.
The condensed moisture drains out the bottom of the air distribution housing. Be sure
that this drain does not become obstructed or
plugged. Water coming from outlets at high
blower fan speeds indicates drain blockage.
Evaporator fin temperatures cannot be
allowed to drop below the freezing point of
water. If this happens, the evaporator can
become blocked with ice. Evaporator temperature is maintained by controlling the
amount of refrigerant pumped through the
system. A variable displacement A/C compressor controls refrigerant pressure and
temperature in the evaporator.
In addition to removing heat, the evaporator

also dehumidifies the interior air. As air is
cooled and transfers heat energy to the
refrigerant, the moisture (water vapor) in the
air loses enough heat to change state, and it
condenses to liquid water on the evaporator
fins. This adds to passenger comfort, helps
to defog the windshield in damp weather
and is why A/C is enabled when the defrost
function is selected in models with
Automatic Climate Control Systems.
Fin
Laminar tube
evaporator
Refrigerant
Plate evaporator
Plates
Air
Refrigerant
flow
39

Restrictor
All current production Audi models except TT
uses restrictor A/C systems. TT models are
equipped with expansion valve systems.
Restrictor
The restrictor is a fixed orifice that is

installed in the evaporator inlet line, the
same location as the expansion valve. But
where the expansion valve's orifice is variable in size, the restrictor's opening is not.
Like the expansion valve, the restrictor separates the high and low pressure sides.
The restrictor is a metal tube molded into a
plastic housing with a filter screen. It has no
moving parts. The size of the opening in the
metal tube determines the flow rate of the
restrictor.
To evaporator
From condenser
Arrow points toward evaporator

in direction of flow
Restrictor
40
High pressure liquid refrigerant flows to the

restrictor from the condenser. Refrigerant is
metered into the evaporator through the
restrictor. Pressure drops as the refrigerant
sprays from the restrictor. This drop in pressure allows the refrigerant to change state
from liquid to a gas in the evaporator, and in
doing so, absorb heat from the passenger
compartment.
There is an arrow on the side of the restrictor that points in the direction of refrigerant
flow.
It is normal for the filter screen to have
some metal debris on the inlet side. This is
usually material left over from manufacturing
and installation of components. If the filter
screen is plugged however, it means the
refrigerant is contaminated or that the system is wearing out internally. A plugged
restrictor cannot be effectively cleaned and
must be replaced after making repairs.

Expansion Valve
Currently, Audi TT models use expansion
valve type systems (All other Audi vehicles
use restrictors). Audi uses "H" type expansion valves. This valve got its name because
its shape forms the letter "H" when the
refrigerant lines are attached. The restriction
is in the evaporator inlet side, the same location as in the restrictor tube system. Both
evaporator inlet and outlet lines pass
through the "H" type expansion valve.
To regulate the flow of refrigerant into the

evaporator, the expansion valve senses both
refrigerant temperature and pressure in the
evaporator. The expansion valve must be
well insulated from ambient air temperature
in the engine compartment in order to properly sense ONLY evaporator temperature.
There is an insulating cover that must be in
place to insure proper operation of the valve.
Evaporator tubes
Bulkhead
Like the restrictor, the expansion valve separates the high and low pressure sides of the
system and creates the restriction that the
compressor uses to build high side pressure. The valve restricts and controls the
amount of refrigerant admitted into the evaporator. However, the expansion valve is a
variable, not fixed orifice.
O-rings
Insulator
Expansion valve
To compressor
(low pressure)
Evaporator outlet
(low pressure)
Membranes
Thermal head with

special gas filling
Push rod
Pressure-equalizing
hole
To evaporator
(low pressure)
From condenser
(high pressure)
Regulating spring
Globe valve
H Type Expansion Valve
41

Temperature is sensed at the evaporator outlet. The low pressure refrigerant gas exiting
the evaporator flows through the "H" block
and across the thermostatic element.
Increases in evaporator outlet gas temperature due to increased heat load cause a pressure rise (Pa) of the gas filling in the thermostatic element. The diaphragm in the gas
filled thermostatic valve element moves
downward, opening the ball valve a greater
amount, admitting more refrigerant.
Expansion value with high heat load
The expansion valve also senses evaporator

inlet pressure. Pressure acts on the underside of the diaphragm in the gas filled thermostatic valve element. Any decrease in
evaporator pressure tends to open the ball
valve and increase the amount of refrigerant
admitted. This would be the case if the evaporator were "starved" and required more
refrigerant.
When additional refrigerant flows into the
evaporator, there is more refrigerant available
to absorb heat. This reduces the temperature
at the evaporator outlet, causing a pressure
drop in the thermostatic valve element. It
also increases evaporator pressure. Both of
these conditions act on the diaphragm to
reduce the ball valve opening. The cross-section opening of the valve is reduced as the
spring pushes the ball valve toward its seat.
Expansion value with low heat load
42

Accumulator
All A/C systems with restrictors use a reservoir called an accumulator. This component is
located on the low side between the evaporator outlet and the compressor inlet. The accumulator stores excess refrigerant and also
contains a desiccant to remove moisture.
Accumulator
Refrigerant leaving the evaporator is collected by the accumulator before returning to

the compressor. This allows any liquid refrigerant to be contained before it can get to the
compressor. If liquid refrigerant were to
enter the compressor, damage could result
from hydraulic lock. This is commonly
referred to as "slugging the compressor."
Liquid refrigerant entering the accumulator
will fall to the bottom where the low pressure created by the compressor will allow it
to vaporize. Only refrigerant vapor is drawn
into the U-tube and flows to the compressor.
Oil circulating with the refrigerant will also
collect on the bottom of the accumulator. To
prevent the accumulator from trapping this
oil, there is a bleed hole with a filter screen
in the bottom of the U-tube. Oil entering the
accumulator will be siphoned off through the
oil bleed hole.
The accumulator contains a desiccant to
remove moisture from the refrigerant.
Moisture can cause A/C system performance problems and it promotes corrosion
of internal parts. Water combines with refrigerants and oils to form corrosive compounds. Both R-12 and R-134a are hygroscopic and readily absorb water. PAG oil
used in R-134a systems is especially able to
absorb water.
Bracket
From evaporator
Insulating sleeve
Accumulator dome
Desiccant
To
compressor
Oil filter
U-tube
Oil bleed hole
43
Sealing caps
Moisture can cause another problem.

Temperatures at the restrictor can drop
below the freezing point of water. If there is
moisture in the system, it can form ice in the
restrictor orifice and block refrigerant flow. To
diagnose excessive water in the system, see
Using A/C System Pressures to Diagnose
A/C System Performance Complaints.
Desiccants used in some R-12 systems cannot be used with R-134a. Incompatible desiccants will break up and may plug the refrigerant circuit if used with R-134a. If an R-12
system is being converted to use R-134a, be
sure to replace the accumulator.
New accumulators come with caps sealing
openings. Do not remove the caps until you
are ready to install the accumulator.
Moisture in the air will saturate the desiccant
in a very short time. An accumulator left
open (even a new one) must not be used
and must be replaced.
Accumulator
44
Also seal any refrigerant circuit connections

that are opened during repairs to prevent
moisture in the air from entering the system.
Any system that has been left open such as
one broken open in an accident must have
the accumulator replaced as part of the
repair.

Receiver Dryer
The receiver dryer is the reservoir for refrigerant in A/C systems with expansion valves.
This component is located on the high side
(unlike the accumulator), near the condenser
outlet.
Warm, high pressure liquid refrigerant flows
from the condenser into the receiver dryer.
This creates a reservoir of excess refrigerant
that may be necessary if the system calls for
more capacity to meet higher heat loads.
This reserve of refrigerant also stabilizes any
variations in pressure and compensates for
loss.
The receiver/dryer also removes moisture
and contaminants in the refrigerant. All the
refrigerant passing through the receiver
dryer flows through a desiccant which
removes moisture. The screen on the pickup
tube filters other particles. Both the desiccant and filter screen can be overwhelmed
and made ineffective by excessive moisture
or debris.
Liquid refrigerant leaving the receiver dryer

flows to the expansion valve. Most R-12 systems had a window called a sight glass built
into the receiver dryer. This provided a view
into the system which could help to determine if a system was contaminated or properly charged. The window was located in a
line with liquid refrigerant, which should
appear colorless. Systems with a very low
charge would create a heavy stream of bubbles in the sight glass. Most systems utilizing R-134a do not have a sight glass, as the
PAG oil streaks the window.
As with accumulators, the desiccant in the
receiver dryer must be compatible with R134a if an R-12 system is being converted to
use R-134a. Be sure to replace the receiver
dryer.
Also, the same cautions apply to the sealing
caps on new components. Keep them in
place until you are ready to install the receiver dryer.
Sight glass
In
Out
Pickup
tube
Desiccant
Screen
Receiver Dryer (R-134a style)
Receiver Dryer (R12 style)
45

Lines and Hoses
Rigid lines and flexible hoses join the various
components in the A/C system and create
a closed loop through which the refrigerant
flows. Rigid lines are usually formed
aluminum. Flexible hoses are a reinforced
rubber compound with a barrier liner.
Low side lines and hoses are generally larger
in diameter when compared with high side
lines and hoses. This is because refrigerant
gas in the low side has expanded and takes
up much more space than refrigerant liquid
on the high side.
Joints may be several types but always have

o-rings for sealing. When assembling lines or
replacing o-ring seals, always lubricate
o-rings only with PAG oil. The oil helps the
o-ring to properly seat and seal. Do not use
any other lubricant. Always torque fasteners
to specifications.
Lines can be flushed if contamination is
suspected, see Refrigerant System Service
section.
Lines and hoses
46
Review Questions
Review Questions - Heat Transfer
System
1. Which component in the
refrigeration cycle transfers
heat from the refrigerant to
ambient air outside the car?
a. Evaporator
b. Condenser
c. Accumulator
d. Restrictor
2. The high side of the refrigerant
circuit begins and ends where?
a. Begins at the condenser, ends at
the evaporator
b. Begins at the evaporator, ends at
the compressor
4. The evaporator:
a. removes heat from the air passing
through it.
b. removes moisture from the refrigerant as it flows through it.
c. turns the refrigerant from a gas to
a liquid.
d. transfers heat from the refrigerant
to the surrounding air.
5. The accumulator:
a. traps refrigerant oil which is then
siphoned back into the refrigerant
circuit.
c. Begins at the compressor, ends at

the restrictor
b. collects liquid refrigerant, preventing it from entering the compressor.
d. Begins at the restrictor, ends at the

compressor
c. contains a desiccant that removes

moisture from the refrigerant.
d. does all of the above.
3. Refrigerant enters the

compressor as a:
a. hot high pressure liquid
b. cold low pressure liquid
c. hot high pressure gas
d. cold low pressure gas
6. The parts department gives

you an accumulator to install
on a vehicle. There are no caps
on the A/C line fittings. What
should you do?
a. Check for dirt or debris in the fittings, install if clean.
b. Blow it out with compressed air
and install it.
c. Do not install and recommend that
it be destroyed.
d. Flush it with Nitrogen before
installing it.
47
Review Questions
7. In an "H" block refrigeration
system, the refrigerant gas
exiting the H-block returns to
what component?
a. The receiver dryer
b. The compressor
c. The condenser
d. The accumulator
8. Cool gas exiting the "H" block
helps to perform what
function?
a. Cools the refrigerant
b. Regulates the refrigerant entering
the evaporator
c. Changes cool gas back to a hot
liquid
d. Regulates the refrigerant exiting
the evaporator.
48
9. Refrigerant flows through the

receiver dryer in what state?
a. A cold low pressure gas
b. A hot high pressure gas
c. A hot high pressure liquid
d. A cold low pressure liquid
10.Like the accumulator, the
receiver dryer may be flushed
with nitrogen and reinstalled if
the system has been opened in
any way.
a. True
b. False
Air Distribution System

Temperature and Air Distribution

Controls
The Air Distribution System controls air flow

direction, volume and temperature within the
passenger compartment. The system can
add or remove heat from the cabin air.
The Air Distribution Housing contains the
heater core, evaporator, blower fan, air control flaps and their actuators, and passages
to various outlets in the vehicle. Air control
flaps can be moved to redirect air flow. The
flaps are controlled by cables in manual A/C
systems and by electric motors in Automatic
Climate Control Systems.
On manual A/C systems, cable-actuated

flaps in the air distribution box regulate air
distribution and temperature.
On Automatic climate control systems, the
flaps are moved by electric motors. Flap
position information is provided by feedback
potentiometers.
The foot well/defrost flap directs air to the

windshield and side windows or to the foot
well. The central air flap directs or blocks air
to the instrument panel vents (where the air
can also be controlled by hand-valves at the
outlets). Some air will always be directed to
the defroster vents.
To defrost vents
Evaporator
Fresh air intake
Heater core
Air intake
housing
Fresh air blower
Air distribution
housing
To instrument panel vents

To floor vents
49

Fresh Air Mode
Air can be drawn into the air distribution
housing from two inlets - outside (fresh) air,
and inside (recirculation) air. When the fresh
air mode is selected, outside air is drawn into
the vehicle from the intake air duct, located
in the engine compartment plenum in front
of the windshield. All outside air passes
through the dust, pollen and odor filter.
Air Recirculation Mode

Depressing the recirculation switch on the
heating and A/C control panel selects the
recirculation mode. The recirculation mode
prevents outside air intake and increases the
cooling efficiency of the A/C. It also prevents
unpleasant odors from entering the vehicle
interior.
Fresh air
from plenum
The fresh air/recirculation flap is controlled

by a vacuum servo on 1996 A4 and
Cabriolet. On 1997 and newer A4, A8 and
current A6 and TT models, the fresh air/recirculation flap is operated by an electric motor.
On Automatic Climate Control systems,
selecting max A/C enables the recirculation
mode. Selecting defrost cancels recirculation.
The air flow flaps gradually close as road
speed increases. This reduces the ram effect
and provides more consistent air volume at
all road speeds.
Air flow flaps
Air flow flaps
Fresh air/recirculation
air flap closed
Fresh air/
recirculation
air flap open
Fresh air blower
Fresh air blower
Air flow to
vehicle interior
Air flow to
vehicle
Interior
1998 A6 fresh air mode
50
Recirculated air
from vehicle
interior
1998 A6 recirculation mode

Temperature Regulation
A blend air or "reheat" system is used on all
Audi models. In this system, all air entering
the air distribution housing first passes
through the evaporator where it is cooled
more than desired and also dehumidified.
This air is then blended with some reheated
air which has been directed through the
heater core to provide the desired air temperature at the outlets.
Temperature
flap 1, closed
Defroster flap,
closed
Intake air
from fresh
air blower
Central
flaps,
closed
Temperature
flap 2, open
For all models except A8, temperature is regulated by the amount of air that is permitted
to flow through the heater core.
The temperature regulator flap is operated
by a cable on manual A/C systems and by an
electric motor on the Automatic Climate
Control System.
Evaporator
Heater core
Temperature flap 1, open
Temperature flap 1, closed
Center vents
open
Temperature flap 2, open
Footwell flap
open
Temperature flap 2,
closed
A6, maximum cooling

at center vents
Footwell flap,
open
A6 maximum heat
at footwell vents
51

On A8 models, all air flows through both the
evaporator and the heater cores.
Passenger side
heater core
Air temperature is controlled by the amount

of coolant metered into the heater cores.
This method of temperature control uses
less space than the blend air systems used
on other models.
Drivers side
heater core
A8 heater cores slip partially out
of the air distribution housing
To passenger side
heater core
To driver's side
heater core
An electric pump is used to circulate the

coolant through the heater cores. Solenoid
valves operate on a duty cycle, controlled by
the control head to meter coolant flow
through the heater cores.

valve -N175-

valve -N176-
Coolant pump
-V50-
Pump valve unit
52

Fresh Air Blower
The fresh air blower is located in the air distribution housing and moves air through the
evaporator and heater core. On the A4, current model A6, A8, TT, and Cabriolet, the fan
is upstream of both the evaporator and the
heater core. On 1992-1997 100/S4 and
A6/S6 models, the fan is located between
the evaporator and heater core, drawing air
through the evaporator and blowing it
through the heater core.
The fresh air blower for the dual climate
control system on the A8 uses dual fans
turned by a single motor.
A4 fresh air blower
The fan draws air through the fresh air

intake or from the passenger compartment
in the recirculation mode. All air passes
through the evaporator whether or not the
A/C system is operating. Some or all of the
air is directed through the heater core if
either heat or A/C is selected.
Dust, Pollen and Odor Filter

A dust, pollen and odor filter is used on
most Audi models. All fresh outside air
entering the vehicle for both heating and air
conditioning passes through this filter. It is
constructed with an activated charcoal layer
between the dust and pollen filter elements.
A8 fresh air blower
The activated charcoal removes odors and

some pollutants such as Ozone, which is
converted to Oxygen.
The filter should be replaced according to
the maintenance schedule, or more often if
the vehicle is driven in dusty conditions.
Dust, pollen and odor filter
53
Electrical System and Controls

Introduction
The air conditioning system must operate
effectively under a wide range of temperature and humidity. It must cool and dehumidify air to keep passengers comfortable and
must work well at all engine and compressor
speeds. All of this is managed by system
controls: mechanical, electrical and electronic components that control the operation of
the A/C compressor clutch and compressor
displacement.
Inputs from pressure and temperature sensors provide information to the A/C Clutch
Control Module -J153- for Manual A/C, or the
A/C Control Head -E87- for the Automatic
Climate Control System. Electrical outputs
control the A/C clutch, vacuum solenoids and
flap position motors to control air temperature and flow.
Inputs may include:
A/C refrigerant pressure switches
A/C refrigerant pressure sensor
ECT thermal switch
Ambient temperature switch
Air temperature sensors
ECM load signal
TCM transmission kickdown signal
Other signals may be used as inputs
Outputs may include:
Compressor clutch
regulator valve
Temperature flap and air distribution
flap control
Blower fan
Engine coolant fan request
54
Enabling conditions for safe and efficient operation of the A/C refrigerant
system:
High side pressures must operate below
the safe maximum pressure
System pressure must be high enough
to keep the compressor engaged
Engine coolant temperature must be
below the safe maximum
Ambient temperature must be high
enough to prevent the refrigerant from
condensing in the compressor.
Compressors cannot compress liquid
refrigerant and will be damaged.
Torque demands from the engine and
transmission must not be at maximum
performance levels.
A/C Compressor Clutch Control

Module -J153-
A/C control head -E87-

Manual Air Conditioning
Manual air conditioning systems require the
vehicle occupants to make manual selections and adjustments in order to set or
change interior temperature or air volume
and distribution. Controls for these systems
can be by means of cables, vacuum servos
or electrical switches. Whatever the form of
control, manual input from the passengers is
needed for any setting or adjustment.
Automatic Climate Control

The Audi Automatic Climate Control System
automatically mixes the desired amount of
heated and cooled air, provides the correct
volume of air and directs that air to the
appropriate vents. The occupants switch the
system on and set a desired temperature
and the system does the rest.
Based on inputs from passengers and the

system's sensors, the A/C Control Head
-E87- actuates relays, motors, and solenoids
to control the A/C compressor, position temperature regulation and air distribution flaps,
and set air flow volume. The system uses
inputs from temperature sensors located
inside and outside the vehicle interior. A sunlight photo sensor mounted on the instrument panel measures increased heat load
from sunlight and fine-tunes the system.
The Automatic Climate Control System control head is also linked to coolant fan control,
the instrument panel, and engine and transmission control modules. This section
describes these input and output components and their function.
Audi TT Automatic Climate Control Head
55
Sunlight
photo sensor
-G107Instrument panel
interior temp.
sensor -G56-
Foot well/Defrost
flap motor -V85-
Control Head -E87-
Central air
flap motor -V70Temp. regulator
flap motor -V68-
Outside air
temperature sensor
-G17-
Air flow
flap motor -V71-
Fresh air intake

duct temp. sensor
-G89Foot well air outlet
temp. sensor -G192-
Blower fan -V2-
A/C pressure
switch -F129-
Auxiliary signals:
Engine control unit
Ambient temperature
A/C pressure
sensor -G65Auxiliary signals:
Stationary period signal
Road speed signal
Engine speed signal
Diagnostic Connection
A/C Clutch Control

Module -J153A/C
compressor -N25Radiator fan -V7-
Engine coolant
temperature sensors
-G2- and -G62-
Automatic Climate Control System - typical sensors (inputs)

and actuators (outputs)
56

Sensors (Inputs)
All models with the Automatic Climate
Control System use various electrical sensors to inform the control head of air temperatures, refrigerant pressures, air distribution flap positions and sun load.
These sensors provide electrical inputs to
the A/C Control Head -E87-. The control head
provides outputs that determine the air distribution and temperature regulation based
on these signals.
Pressure and temperature sensors are used

in all A/C systems. Both manual A/C systems and Automatic Climate Control
Systems will be discussed here. To see a
vehicle-specific list of sensors, refer to
Appendix 1: Application Table.
Air flow (recirculation)

flap motor position
sensor -G113Fresh air intake
duct temperature
sensor -G89-
Sunlight photo
sensor -G107-
Sender for outlet

temperature, floor
outlet -G192-
Foot well/defroster
flap motor position
sensor -G114-
Sender for outlet temperature

center vent -G191- (in center
vent )
Evaporator vent
temperature sensor -G263Temperature regulator flap
motor position sensor -G92Central air flap motor
position sensor -G112-
Automatic Climate Control System Input Components
57

A/C Pressure Switch -F129This component is located in the A/C system
high side near the condenser and consists of
two pressure switches controlling two high
pressure and one low pressure functions.
1
2
A/C pressure switch -F129-
To A/C control
head -E87-
To load reduction
positive voltage
To second speed
coolant fan control
circuit
Ground (Gnd)
Pins 1 and 2 are a three-position pressure

switch. This switch is normally closed and
will open when pressures exceed very high
or low thresholds. As long as refrigerant
pressures are between approximately 1.6-28
bar (23.5-415 psi), the switch will be closed,
completing the 12 V circuit to the A/C
Control Head -E87- from the load reduction
circuit.
If the A/C Control Head loses the 12 V signal, it switches off current to the A/C Clutch
Relay -J44- which shuts off the A/C Clutch
-N25-.
Pins 3 and 4 are one normally open switch
that complete the control circuit for the
Second Speed Coolant Fan. When refrigerant pressures reach the first high pressure
threshold (above16 bar or 232 psi), the
switch closes, completing the control circuit
to run the coolant fan at second speed. This
moves more air through the condenser and
reduces refrigerant temperatures to bring
down high side pressures. When high side
pressure drops below 12.5 bar (181 psi), the
circuit opens again.
These are typical values; always refer to service information for actual pressure values.
A/C Pressure Switch -F129- is being phased
out in production and is being replaced by
A/C Pressure Sensor -G65-.
58

A/C Pressure Sensor -G65The A/C Pressure Sensor -G65- is an electronic pressure sensor which is being
phased in to replace A/C Pressure Switch
-F129-. It is mounted in the same high side
location as -F129-. The A/C Pressure Sensor
-G65- is not a pressure sensing switch like
-F129-, but outputs a digital square wave
pulse width modulated signal in proportion
to changes in refrigerant high side pressure.
The sensor provides more information to the
control module, sensing the refrigerant pressure throughout the working range.
Refrigerant pressure and a reference voltage
are applied directly to a silicon crystal in the
sensor. The crystal deforms in response to
the pressure, changing its electrical resistance, resulting in a proportional change in
output voltage.
1
2
3
Low pressure
Silicon crystal
(resistance)
Voltage
Microprocessor
3 2 1
Pulse-width
modulated signal
An internal microprocessor housed in the

sensor converts this voltage to a pulse
width modulated (PWM) signal at a frequency of 50hz, equivalent to a period length of
20ms.
High pressure
Silicon crystal
(resistance)
Voltage
Microprocessor
3 2 1
Pulse-width
modulated signal
59

Using a sensor rather than a switch allows
for expanded capabilities and efficiency. The
A/C Pressure Sensor -G65- provides a signal
which:
Engages and disengages the A/C clutch
Switches coolant fan to next higher fan
speed with system pressure increase
Shuts down the A/C compressor in
extreme low and high pressure conditions
The A/C Pressure Sensor -G65- signal is an
input for the A/C Control Head -E87-. The
sensor is also monitored by the Engine
Control Module -J220- (on some engines) to
detect increased engine load caused by A/C
compressor operation.
Advantages
In idling mode, engine speed can be
adapted exactly to the power consumption of the air conditioning compressor.
Engine Control Module (ECM) calculates
torque loss using signals from idle
speed to full throttle, and adjusts torque
requirements for driving the A/C compressor.
60

A/C Refrigerant High Pressure Switch
-F23The A/C Refrigerant High Pressure Switch
-F23- closes above approximately 14-17 bar
(206-250 psi).
On manual A/C systems, -F23- energizes
the holding coil on the Second Speed
Coolant Fan Control Relay -J101- to switch
the radiator coolant fan to second stage.
This moves more air through the condenser,
reducing refrigerant temperatures and bringing down high side pressures.
A/C Refrigerant High

Pressure Switch -F23-
The switch will open below approximately

11-15 bar (162-220 psi) and the fan will
return to first stage speed. These pressures
are typical values only. Refer to the Repair
Manual for actual pressure values as they
differ from model to model.
A/C Refrigerant High Pressure Switches
-F23-, -F23-/-F118-, and A/C Pressure Switch
-F129- all perform this function.
A/C Refrigerant High Pressure

Switch -F23-/-F118-
61

A/C Refrigerant Low Pressure Switch
-F73The A/C Refrigerant Low Pressure Switch
-F73- is located near the evaporator outlet.
The low-pressure switch shuts off the A/C
compressor if system pressures drop below
1.2-1.8 bar (18-26 psi). Normal system pressure is approximately 4.7 bar (68 psi) at
20C (68F).
A/C refrigerant low pressure

switch -F73-
A sudden loss of refrigerant pressure may

also cause the system to lose refrigerant oil.
Shutting off the compressor will prevent
damage due to a lack of lubrication.
When air temperatures drop, refrigerant
pressure also drops. At very low temperatures, refrigerant can condense into a liquid
in the A/C compressor. If the compressor
were to start it could be damaged from
hydraulic lock. The low-pressure switch prevents the compressor clutch from engaging
and protects the compressor.
A low-pressure switch is also built into the
A/C Pressure Switch -F129- if used. This
switch is located near the condenser.
Valve connections for A/C system

switches
The A/C pressure switches can be removed
from a charged refrigerant circuit.
Discharging the system is not necessary
because the fittings have Schrader valves to
prevent refrigerant leakage.
O-ring
Schrader valve
62
O-rings seal the switches to the connections. When replacing a switch, always
replace and lubricate the O-ring.

Electronic Engine Coolant
Temperature (ECT) Thermal Switch
-F76The Electronic Engine Coolant Temperature
(ECT) Thermal Switch -F76- is an engine
coolant overheat switch that provides an
input to shut off the A/C compressor clutch
if the engine overheats. The compressor is
shut off to reduce the heat load that the A/C
condenser adds to the coolant radiator.
The switch is built into the Electronic Engine
Coolant Temperature (ECT) Thermal Switch
-F76-. This is also the sensor for the engine
coolant temperature gauge. It is located on
the coolant pipe behind the right cylinder
head.
The switch signal is an input to the A/C
Clutch Control Module -J153- on manual A/C
systems or the A/C Control Head -E87- for
the Automatic Climate Control System.
Engine Coolant Temperature

(ECT) Sensor -G62-
Electronic Engine Coolant

Temperature(ECT) Switch -F76-
Note that on these vehicles, the Engine

Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor -G62- for
the Engine Control Module is the 2-pin sensor in the same coolant pipe behind the left
cylinder head.
63

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
-G62The Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
-G62- is located in the coolant flange on the
engine and senses coolant temperature. The
sensor provides an analog signal to the
ECM. If the ECM sees excessive temperatures it will open the A/C Clutch -N25- circuit.
Engine overheat protection for current

models with Automatic Climate
Control
Current production vehicles with the
Automatic Climate Control System do not
have the Electronic Engine Coolant
Temperature (ECT) Thermal Switch -F76-.
Instrument cluster combination

processor -J218-
64
The A4, 1998 > A6 and A8 use the engine

coolant temperature signal from the
Instrument Cluster Combination Processor
-J218- to determine an engine overheat condition. The processor signals the A/C Control
Head -E87- to switch off the A/C compressor
clutch.

Ambient Temperature Switch -F38The Ambient Temperature Switch -F38- is
used with manual A/C systems only. At
ambient temperatures typically below -1C
(30F), the Ambient Temperature Switch
opens the circuit to the compressor clutch.
When temperatures rise to above 5-7C (4145F), the compressor clutch will be permitted to run. These are typical values only, consult service information for specifications.
Ambient Temperature
Switch -F38-
Fresh Air Blower
This switch protects the compressor from

attempting to pump liquid refrigerant which
has condensed in the compressor at low
ambient temperatures. Liquids are not compressible and this could cause a hydrolock
condition and damage the compressor.
The Ambient Temperature switch is connected in series with the A/C Refrigerant Low
Pressure Switch -F73-. If either switch
opens, positive voltage will be shut off to
A/C Switch -E30-.
Cabriolet fresh air intake and fan housing
65

Outside Air Temperature Sensor -G17Fresh air intake duct
temperature sensor
-G89-
On Automatic Climate Control Systems, the

Outside Temperature Sensor -G17- in combination with the Fresh Air Intake Duct
Temperature Sensor -G89- performs the
function of the Ambient Temperature Switch
-F38- on manual A/C systems.
Fresh air
blower
housing
The Outside Temperature Sensor -G17- is

located in front of the A/C condenser.
The Outside Temperature Sensor -G17- is a
Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) sensor that measures outside air temperature
and sends an analog voltage signal with this
information to the Automatic Climate Control
System control head.
Specific uses for this signal are:
To switch A/C compressor clutch off (in
combination with -G89-) at temperatures
below 3C (37F). Prevents refrigerant
that may have condensed to a liquid in
the compressor from circulating.
The difference between the outside temperature signal and the inside temperature setting determines temperature regulator flap position and fresh air blower
speed.
Outside air
temperature
sensor -G17-
1999 A6
The outside temperature display on the

instrument cluster is determined in part
by Outside Temperature Sensor -G17-.
In the event of a -G17- signal malfunction,
the Automatic climate control control head
will use only the -G89- signal.
66

Fresh Air Intake Duct Temperature
Sensor -G89On Automatic Climate Control Systems, the
Fresh Air Intake Duct Temperature Sensor
-G89-, in combination with the Outside
Temperature Sensor -G17-, performs the
function of the Ambient Temperature Switch
-F38- used on the manual A/C systems.
Specific uses for this signal are:
The Fresh Air Intake Duct Sensor -G89- is

mounted in the intake air duct.
In the event of a -G17- and/or a -G89- sensor

malfunction, a DTC will be stored in the
Automatic Climate Control System control
module. Additional diagnosis can be accomplished through the Measuring Value Blocks
(function 08).
The sensor is a Negative Temperature

Coefficient (NTC) sensor that measures
fresh air temperature in the intake duct and
sends an analog voltage signal with this
information to the Automatic Climate Control
Provides precise intake air temperature

information to the A/C control head.
Can replace a missing signal from -G17and vice versa.
Temperature sensor -G89-
67

Instrument Panel Interior Temperature
Sensor -G56This sensor is used on all Automatic Climate
Control Systems from 1992 on. This sensor
is located just above the A/C Control Head
on current model A4 and A6.
Interior Temperature Sensor Fan -V42- is
used to draw interior air past the sensor to
provide an accurate reading of the interior air
temperature.
Temperature
sensor -G56-
In the event of a -G56- malfunction, a DTC

will be stored in the Automatic Climate
Control System control module and a temperature of 24C (75F) will be assumed by
the control head. Additional diagnosis can be
accomplished through the Measuring Value
Blocks (function 08).
Center Vent Outlet Temperature

Sensor -G191Temperature sensor -G191-
The Center Vent Outlet Temperature Sensor

-G191- is located in the lower center of the
duct connecting the Air Distribution Box and
the Center Vent Trim. 1997 and newer A4
models use this sensor.
The climate control system uses this sensor
to adjust the temperature regulation in
response to actual center vent outlet temperatures.
Control System control module. Additional
diagnosis can be accomplished through the
Measuring Value Blocks (function 08).
68

Floor Outlet Temperature Sensor
-G192The Floor Outlet Temperature Sensor -G192is located in the lower left side section of
the Air Distribution Box. Current production
A4 and A6 models use this sensor.
The climate control system uses this sensor
to adjust the temperature regulation in
response to actual floor vent outlet temperatures.
Control System control module and a temperature of 80C (176F) will be assumed by
the control head. Additional diagnosis can be
accomplished through the Measuring Value
Blocks (function 08).
Evaporator Vent Temperature Sensor

-G263The Evaporator Vent Temperature Sensor
-G263- is located on the lower right front
side of the Air Distribution Box and provides
an analog signal to the Automatic Climate
Control System for evaporator outlet air temperature. It is used in 2002 A4 models.
Measuring Value Blocks (function 08).
69

Sunlight Photo Sensor -G107The Sunlight Photo Sensor -G107- is located
on top of the instrument panel.
The Sunlight Photo Sensor controls the
temperature and blower fan speed in
response to the amount of light striking it.
When increased heat load from solar radiation is sensed, the Automatic Climate
Control System will lower the air outlet
temperatures.
Sunlight photo sensor -G107-

Control System control module and a fixed
value will be assumed by the control head.
Additional diagnosis can be accomplished
through the Measuring Value Blocks
(function 08).
Sensor for Air Quality -G238A8/A6 models from 1998 and A4 models
from 2002 have a Sensor for Air Quality
-G238-. The A/C Control Head -E87- monitors
the signal and closes off outside air from the
vehicle interior when high concentrations of
air pollution are encountered.
Sensor for air quality -G238-
70

A/C Compressor Speed Sensor -G111This sensor is used to monitor compressor
belt slippage. The sensor signal is compared
with engine RPM. If it is determined that
there is slippage, the climate control head or
the manual A/C Clutch Control Module turns
off the compressor clutch.
The sensor is an inductive pickup producing
an analog A/C voltage signal similar to a
wheel speed sensor for ABS. The sensor
rotor in the compressor turns with the compressor drive shaft. The rotor has 4 teeth
around its circumference.
If slippage is between 30% and 60%, the
compressor will be switched off but the control module will attempt to turn it back on up
to 9 times per engine start. Slippage over
60% will cause the compressor to be shut
off until the next restart.
Monitoring belt slippage does not just identify a loose belt. If system pressures rise
excessively due to high heat load, the compressor can stall and the belt can burn or
break.
Recover refrigerant before

removing sensor
Removal of -G111- first requires

recovery of the refrigerant from
the system.
The A/C Compressor Speed Sensor -G111- is

used on:
1992-mid 1996 100/S4, A6/S6
1994 > Cabriolet
1996 A4
71

Actuators (Outputs)
The Automatic Climate Control System uses
electric motors to move flaps in the air distribution housing to direct airflow and control
interior air temperature. The system also
controls various actuators, control modules,
relays, motors and solenoids to control the
A/C compressor and set air flow volume.
Actuators for both manual A/C and
Climatronic systems will be covered here.
A/C clutch
relay -J44-
Air flow
flap motor -V71-
Fresh air
blower -V2-
Control module
for fresh air
blower -J126Footwell/defroster
flap motor -V85-
Temperature regulator flap motor -V68Central air flap motor -V70-
1999 A4 Climate Control System Output Components
72

A/C Clutch -N25Most air conditioning compressors use an
electro-magnetic clutch to engage the drive
pulley. The clutch hub and spring plate are
permanently attached to the compressor
shaft. The pulley is driven by the engine and
serpentine belt. When the electro-magnetic
coil is energized, the hub is strongly attracted to the pulley and both rotate together.
On manual air conditioning systems, the A/C
compressor clutch is engaged when the A/C

button is depressed. The fresh air blower
must also be switched on for the compressor to run and for A/C operation. Automatic
climate control A/C systems will be discussed in the Automatic climate control section.
On most compressors, the A/C clutch can be
replaced if it fails. The clearance adjustment
between clutch hub and drive pulley must be
checked during installation.
Clutch off
*
Clutch on
Belt pulley with bearing
Compressor
input shaft
Force flow
Spring plate
with hub
Magnetic coil
Compressor
housing
* A = Clutch Clearance
73

Compressor Clutch Engagement
A/C Compressor Clutch Cut-out
Current to the A/C compressor clutch is supplied by the load reduction circuit in the electrical system. The current is switched on and
off by the A/C Clutch Relay -J44-. This relay is
switched by the A/C Clutch Control Module
-J153- on the manual A/C systems.
A blocked or dirty condenser or an overheating engine may cause excessively high A/C
system pressures. If the refrigerant pressures continue to rise even after the coolant
fan is switched to 2nd speed, a second high
pressure switch in system will shut off the
A/C compressor. Pressures of 28-31 bar
(412-456 psi) will open the switch. The open
circuit signal is an input to the A/C Clutch
Control Module -J153- in manual A/C systems which then stops current flow to the
A/C Clutch -N25-.
Inputs from pressure switches, temperature

sensors and other control modules are processed by -J153- to determine the compressor on/off state.
A/C Refrigerant High Pressure Switches

-F118-, -F23-/-F118-, and A/C Pressure Switch
-F129- all perform this function.
A blocked restrictor or plugged high side
refrigerant line will not ordinarily cause excessively high pressures in A/C systems using
variable displacement compressors. As the
compressor pumps refrigerant into the high
side, the low side pressures drop causing the
control valve in the compressor to reduce the
piston stroke, reducing high side pressure.
If a control valve sticks and is unable to
change compressor displacement in
response to a plugged refrigerant line, then
pressures may rise high enough to cause
the A/C clutch cut-out to open the circuit. In
Denso externally controlled A/C compressors
without clutches, the pulley and hub assembly will begin to overrun and slip, preventing
loss of the serpentine drive belt.
Denso A/C compressor clutch
with thermal fuse
74

Denso A/C Compressor with
Externally Controlled A/C Compressor
Regulator Valve -N280- without clutch
The Denso externally controlled A/C compressor is a single-acting swash plate six
cylinder compressor with variable displacement. Since the compressor displacement
can be varied from virtually 0% to 100%,
there is no need to disengage the compressor when A/C is not desired and therefore
the traditional magnetic clutch is not used.
This results in smoother operation, eliminating compressor cut-in shock.
A new pulley has integrated overload protection, which protects the compressor and serpentine belt drive from damage. If the compressor locks, the pulley begins to override
graphite coated rubber blocks between the
pulley and hub. This deforms pulley components but permits the engine to run without
breaking the serpentine belt. The compressor must be replaced as a unit if this pulley
slip has occurred.
Normal Pulley
Pulley
Rubber
Hub
Pulley drives
hub
Belt pulley
with bearing
Hub deforms when compressor seizes

When compressor seizes,
pulley overrides rubber
Deformed hub
75

The compressor displacement is varied in a
way similar to the Denso variable displacement compressor with internal valve. In both
cases, varying pressure in the chamber
behind the compressor pistons changes the
angle of the swash plate (wobble plate in the
Zexel) and thereby changes piston stroke
and displacement.
In the Denso externally controlled compressor, the pressure in the chamber behind the
pistons is controlled by the A/C Compressor
Regulating Valve -N280-. This valve has both
mechanical and electromagnetic functions.
Compressor shown in full

displacement position
Mechanically, the valve has an element sensing low side system pressure. Electrically,
the valve is controlled by a solenoid operating at a high frequency of 500 Hz. This high
frequency causes the valve to semi-float,
and it moves very little. When no voltage is
applied to the valve, the compressor
crankcase is open to system high side pressure and the compressor displacement is
near 0%.
Vacuum Solenoids
Electrically controlled vacuum solenoids control the engine coolant shutoff valve and
fresh air/recirculation valve in some models.
The Fresh Air/Recirculating Flap Two-Way
Valve -N63- is used on:
1992-1997 100/S4, A6/S6
Compressor shown in low
displacement position
1993-1995 90
1994 >Cabriolet
1996 A4
The Engine Coolant Two-Way Vacuum Valve
is used on:
1992-1997 100/S4, A6/S6
76

Control Module for Fresh Air Blower
-J126- and Fresh Air Blower -V2The Automatic Climate Control System uses
an electronic control module to vary the fresh
air blower speed depending on the temperature differential between the vehicle's interior
air temperature and the desired air temperature selected by the vehicle occupants.
Generally, the higher the difference between
actual temperature and selected temperature, the higher the blower speed. However
the blower will not come on in a cold car
until the engine has warmed the coolant
enough for the blower to provide warm air.
In the event of a -J126- or -V2- malfunction,

a DTC will be stored in the Automatic
Climate Control System control module.
Additional diagnosis can be accomplished
through the Measuring Value Blocks (function 08) and the Output Diagnostic Testing
Mode (function 03).
The Control Module for Fresh Air Blower

-J126- and Fresh Air Blower -V2- together are
mounted on the right side of the Air
Distribution Box in front of the glove box.
The blower fan is in the intake air duct
entrance ahead of both the evaporator and
the heater core.
Note: -J126- is integral with -V2- on some
models.
Blower fan speed is controlled by the Control
Module for Fresh Air Blower -J126- by way of
a signal from the Automatic Climate Control
System control module. The Control Module
for Fresh Air Blower varies the voltage supplied to the blower fan in 7 steps.
In the fully automatic mode of operation, the
blower fan speed is the highest when there
is a large difference between the ambient
interior temperature and the temperature
setting on the Automatic Climate Control
System control head. As the temperature difference decreases, the blower speed automatically steps down and decreases.
Control module
for fresh air blower
-J126Fresh air
blower -V2-
Interior temperature
sensor fan -V42-
77

Delay of Fresh Air Blower Start-up
The A/C Control Head -E87- uses one of two
methods to determine if the fresh air blower
start-up will be delayed. On most models,
input from the air temperature sensors are
used to time the duration of the delay.
A/C Engine Coolant Temperature

(ECT) sensor -G110Control module
for fresh air blower
-J126Fresh air
blower -V2-
Interior temperature
sensor fan -V42-
On the 5 cylinder engine used in S4/S6 models, there is an A/C Engine Coolant
Temperature (ECT) Sensor -G110- in the
coolant hose to the heater core. The fresh air
blower will not come on until engine coolant
temperature is high enough to provide warm
air to the vehicle occupants.
With either method of blower start-up delay,
the A/C Control Head -E87- will override the
delay when the defrost mode is selected.
Defrost automatically starts the blower at
high speed and also opens the Fresh
Air/Recirculation Flap if closed to outside air.
Interior Temperature Sensor Fan -V42The Interior Temperature Sensor Fan -V42- is
integral with the Automatic Climate Control
System control module. It draws interior air
past the Instrument Panel Interior
Temperature Sensor -G56-. The fan runs
whenever the Automatic Climate Control
System is switched on.
Solar Sunroof
A4 3.0l, A6, and A8 models with the solar
sunroof use solar energy to produce electricity to run the fresh air blower to keep the
interior cool when the car is parked.
A4 3.0l, A6 and A8 solar sunroof
78

Manual A/C Blower Control
The manual A/C system uses a 5-position
switch and a stepped resistor pack to give
four fan speeds. The blower motor has continuous positive voltage with the key on. The
ground for the motor is completed through
the resistors and switch.
The switch directs electrical current through
all three resistors in series for low blower
speed. In the second switch position, two of
the resistors are in series in the circuit, and
for the third speed position, only one of the
resistors is used. The resistor pack is completely bypassed for high blower speed.
If the resistor pack overheats, a thermal fuse

will melt and open the circuit. If this occurs,
the fan will run on high speed only.
A resistor pack with a melted thermal fuse
may be an indication of worn blower motor
bearings, or a restriction in the airflow (such
as a blocked dust and pollen filter). These
conditions can cause the motor current draw
to rise, adding to the heat load on the resistor pack. Always check for mechanical problems before replacing the resistor pack.
The resistor pack is mounted in the air distribution housing near the fresh air blower for
cooling. Do not operate the blower with the
resistor pack removed from the air flow, and
in winter conditions, do not operate the
blower with the air intake blocked with ice or
snow.
Fresh air blower series

resistance
Fresh air blower -V2-
4th
3rd
2nd
1st
Fresh air blower switch
79

Flap Motor and Flap Motor Position
Sensor Operation
The Automatic Climate Control System control head is programmed to set the various
flaps within the Air Distribution Box to specific positions in response to passenger
requirements and sensor inputs. The flap
motors move the flaps.
A position sensor built into each flap motor
provides a feedback signal to the control
head to indicate flap position. The position
sensor is a potentiometer (a three-wire variable resistor) providing an analog voltage signal to the control head.
As the flap moves, the control head matches
the incoming voltage signal to values held in
memory. When the voltage matches the
stored value, the control head assumes that
the desired position has been achieved and
switches off the current to the flap motor.
80
The values held in memory come from full

sweep movements of the potentiometers
that were retained during Basic Settings
(function 04).
In the event of a flap motor malfunction, a
DTC will be stored in the Automatic Climate
Measuring Value Blocks (function 08), Basic
Settings (function 04) and the Output
Diagnostic Testing Mode (function 03).

Temperature Regulator Flap Motor
-V68- with Position Sensor -G92The Temperature Regulator Flap Motor -V68is located on the bottom of the Air
Distribution Box and includes Position
Sensor -G92-. The motor moves the temperature flap to mix cool air with reheated air in
response to the various inputs and the temperature setting on the Automatic Climate
Control System control head.
Temperature regulator flap motor -V68with position sensor -G92-
Central Air Flap Motor -V70- with

Position Sensor -G112The Central Air Flap Motor is also located on
the bottom of the Air Distribution Box and
includes the Position Sensor, -G112-.
The motor moves the central flap to control
and limit air flow to the center vent. Air is
directed to the Foot well/Defroster Flap for
further distribution in response to the various
inputs on the Automatic Climate Control
Central air flap motor -V70with position sensor -G112-
81

Air Flow (Recirculation) Flap Motor
-V71- with Position Sensor -G113The Air Flow (Recirculation) Flap Motor -V71is located on the right side of the Air
Distribution Box and includes the Position
Sensor -G113-.
This motor serves two functions on the
1997-2001 A4 and the 1998 and newer A6.
The motor operates flaps that control the
amount of air that can enter the fresh air
intake duct.
Air flow (recirculation) flap motor -V71with position sensor -G113-
82
As road speed increases, the airflow flaps

close to maintain a constant flow of air into
the vehicle. Interior temperature and airflow
is maintained at the preset level.
On the 2002 A4, this flap is split into 2 sections: a Ventilation Flap and a Recirculation
Flap. The Ventilation Flap fits within the
Recirculation Flap. In the ventilation mode,
both flaps allow outside air to enter the vehicle interior. As vehicle speed increases, the
Automatic Climate Control System control
module commands the Ventilation Flap to
move to restrict air flow to the interior. This
results in constant air flow rate into the vehicle despite the higher speed. The
Recirculation Flap can be moved at any time
to change the air intake from outside (fresh)
to inside (recirculate).

Foot well/Defroster Flap Motor -V85with Position Sensor -G114The Foot well/Defroster Flap Motor -V85- is
located on the left side of the Air Distribution
Box and includes Position Sensor -G114-.
The motor moves the Foot well/Defroster
Flap to direct air flow up to the defroster
vent or down to the foot well outlets. Air
flow is directed to the Foot well/ Defroster
Flap from a point ahead of the Central Flap
in response to the various inputs on the
Climate Control System control head.
Foot well/defroster flap motor -V85

with position sensor -G114-
A8 Automatic Climate Control System

On A8 models, air temperature is controlled
by the amount of coolant metered into the
heater cores.
An electric pump is used to circulate the
coolant through the heater cores. Solenoid
valves operate on a duty cycle to meter
coolant flow through the heater cores.

valve -N175-

valve -N176-
Coolant pump
-V50-
83

Cooling Fan
Early Systems
The engine cooling fan moves air through

the condenser fins to remove heat from the
refrigerant. The electric fan runs whenever
the air conditioner is on. If refrigerant pressures rise, the fan will be switched to a higher Second Speed to remove more heat.
The Electronic Engine Coolant Temperature

(ECT) Thermal Switch -F76- is used to monitor excessive coolant temperatures. The
switch signal is an input to the A/C Clutch
Control Module -J153- on manual A/C systems or the A/C Control Head -E87- on the
Automatic Climate Control System.
During periods of high heat load, high side

system pressures rise. To reduce this pressure, more heat energy must be removed
from the refrigerant as it flows through the
condenser. This is accomplished by running
the radiator coolant fan at higher speed.
Engine Overheat Protection

In manual A/C systems, the A/C Refrigerant
High Pressure Switch -F23- turns on the the
Second Speed Coolant Fan Control (FC)
Relay -J101- directly. It overrides the Coolant
Fan Control (FC) Thermoswitch -F18- to
reduce condenser temperatures regardless
of engine coolant temperatures.
Ter. X
Later Systems
The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT)
Sensor -G2- for the coolant temperature
gauge is combined with the Engine Coolant
Temperature (ECT) Sensor -G62- for the
Engine Control Module (ECM). For the V6 5V
engine, the combined sensor is located in
the coolant pipe at the rear of the engine,
behind the right cylinder head.
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor
-G2- sends a signal to the Instrument Cluster
Combination Processor -J218-. The A/C control head gets coolant temperature information from -J218-.
B+
Engine coolant temperature (ECT)

sensors -G2- and -G62-
F23
To J26
N39
F18
84
J101
V7
Gnd
V7
V6 5V coolant pipe

Vacuum Solenoids
Engine Control Module (ECM) -J220-
Electrically controlled vacuum solenoids control the engine coolant shutoff valve and
fresh air/recirculation valve in some models.
The ECM provides an input to the A/C

Compressor Clutch Control Module -J153- or
A/C Control Head -E87-. This input will shut
off the compressor for the following
reasons:
The Fresh Air/Recirculating Flap Two-Way

Valve -N63- is used on:
1992-1997 100/S4, A6/S6
1993-1995 90
1994> Cabriolet
1996 A4
The Engine Coolant Two-Way Vacuum Valve
is used on:
Engine speed drops below 300 RPM

At start-up to delay "compressor on"
input and allow time to stabilize idle
Full throttle acceleration (gives driver
maximum power output from engine)
In addition, storing certain DTCs in the
ECM may block A/C operation
1992-1997 100/S4, A6/S6
Additional Signals
The A/C compressor places a load on the
engine when it is running, especially when
there is a high heat load. The variable displacement compressor will be at a high displacement and the resistance from pumping
against the high pressures in the high side
of the refrigerant system will place a drag on
the engine.
There are times when it is advantageous to
shut off the A/C compressor to improve vehicle performance, such as when starting the
engine or when quick acceleration is needed.
ECM -J220-
Transmission Control Module (TCM)

-J217 The kick down input from the TCM will
shut off the A/C compressor to assist
acceleration
In addition, storing certain DTCs in the
TCM may block A/C operation
TCM -J217-
85
Review Questions
Review Questions - Electrical
System & Controls
1. In a normally operating A/C
system, the high side refrigerant
pressures are rising. What is the
A/C systems first response to
this situation?
a. Shut off the A/C compressor
clutch.
b. Switch on the coolant fan to
second speed.
c. Relieve pressure at the pressure
relief valve.
d. Decrease compressor displacement.
2. Why does the A/C system shut off
the compressor clutch at low
ambient temperatures?
a. To prevent hydro-lock in the
compressor
b. The refrigerant may condense in
the compressor
c. The A/C compressor drive belt
may slip
d. All of the above
86
3.
Which sensor input will cause the

control head to shut off the compressor clutch if high side pressure exceeds a threshold value?
a. Ambient Temperature Switch -F38b. Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT)
Sensor -G62c. A/C Pressure Switch -F129d. Pressure relief valve
4. In fully automatic mode, the

blower speed is highest when:
a. temperature differential between
ambient temperature and selected
temperature is great
b. temperature differential between
ambient temperature and selected
temperature is small.
c. temperature differential between
interior temperature and selected
temperature is small.
d. temperature differential between
interior temperature and selected
temperature is great.
On Board Diagnostics
On Board Diagnostic Functions
Both the Automatic Climate Control System
and the manual air conditioning system have
on board diagnostic capabilities.
Automatic Climate Control OBD

01 - Check Control Module Versions
02 - Check DTC Memory
The Automatic Climate Control System has a

permanent DTC memory and a full compliment of functions available on the VAS 5051
tester. The table to the right lists all VAS
5051 functions that can be used.
03 - Output Diagnostic Test Mode
The manual A/C system has a temporary

DTC memory and limited VAS 5051 functions. The table below details the differences between the two systems.
07 - Code Control Module
04 - Basic Setting
05 - Erase DTC Memory
06 - End Output
08 - Measuring Value Blocks

11 - Login
Always consult AESIS or service information

for DTC definitions and diagnostic information.
OBD Functions
A/C Clutch Control Module

-J153Manual A/C
A/C Control Head

-E87Automatic Climate Control
DTC memory
Temporary (cleared when

ignition is switched off)
Permanent memory
Data Output
Rapid data transfer
Rapid data transfer
Output Diagnostic
Test Mode
Yes
Yes
Basic Setting
No
Yes
Read Measuring
Value Block
Yes (one measuring block,

4 display fields)
Yes (ten measuring blocks,

4 display fields each)
Code Control Module
No (check part number and

parts catalog for correct
application)
Yes
87
Manual A/C OBD
Automatic Climate Control OBD
DTC Memory
01 - Check Control Module Version
DTCs are set in the temporary DTC memory

when the ignition is on, the A/C system is
operating or during an Output DTM of the
A/C clutch. The memory is erased each time
the ignition is switched off.
There are several versions of control modules in use with the Automatic Climate
Control system. Control modules have
changed as the system has evolved with different pressure switches, the number and
location of temperatures sensors, the addition of flap motors and changes in A/C compressor manufacturers.
Output DTM
The manual A/C Clutch Control Module
-J153- has one output, positive voltage to
the A/C Clutch -N25-. The Output DTM can
be used to check the ability of the control
module to switch the clutch on and off.
Read Measuring Value Blocks

Inputs to the A/C Clutch Control Module and
the A/C clutch relay output can be monitored
using the VAS 5051 tester.
Display field 1 in display group 1 identifies
compressor on/off conditions. Compressor
on and seven compressor off conditions can
be displayed numerically. A table in the
Repair Manual lists the different conditions.
Display field 2 provides engine RPM.
Display field 3 provides compressor speed.
Display field 4 gives compressor drive belt
slippage in percent.
88
The VAS 5051 displays control module information in the upper right window of the
screen. Included are the control module version, part number and current coding.
Always check for correct control

unit part number and coding when
diagnosing system faults!
02 - DTC Memory
The On Board Diagnostic system monitors
the electronic functions of the automatic climate control system. If faults are detected, a
permanent DTC memory stores the
Diagnostic Trouble Code. As the system has
changed over the years new DTCs have been
added to the DTC tables in VESIS and the
Repair Manual. When checking DTC memory,
be sure to use the DTC table appropriate for
the vehicle you are working on.
03 - Output DTM
Up to eleven items can be actuated with the
Output DTM function. The available outputs
depend on the version of the climate control
system being tested. The Output DTM is
used as part of diagnostic procedures to
check the operation of individual outputs of
the A/C Control Head -E87-.
Entering Basic Settings disables

compressor operation!
Components tested in sequence using Output DTM

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
A/C Clutch
Fresh Air Blower
Coolant Fan
Fresh Air/Recirculating Flap two-way Valve
Temperature Regulator Flap Motor
Central Air Flap Motor
Footwell/ Defroster Flap Motor
Air Flow Flap Motor
Interior Temperature Sensor Fan
A/C Control Head display segment test
11 Outside Air Temperature Display test
04 - Basic Settings
In the Automatic Climate Control System
used in the A4 and A6, temperature regulation and air distribution are controlled by
movable flaps in the air distribution housing.
These flaps are positioned by electric
motors.
The A/C control head actuates the motors in
response to inputs from the vehicle occupants, temperature sensors and sunlight
photo sensor. Feedback potentiometers built
into the flap motors provide flap position
information to the A/C control head. The control head measures the voltage drop across
the potentiometers to determine the position of the flaps.
When the system is in Basic Settings, the
VAS 5051 tester commands the A/C control
head to drive the flaps to their end stops.
When an end stop is reached, the control
head saves in memory the signal voltage
value it is receiving. This signal voltage value
is then "understood" by the control head to
be the end stop for that particular flap.
Footwell/defroster flap motor -V85Footwell/defroster flap motor

position sensor -G114If a flap binds or encounters an obstruction
during Basic Settings that prevents it from
reaching an end stop, the A/C control head
will set a DTC in memory for that flap.
While Basic Settings is selected, the VAS
5051 displays digital values for position
sensors.
89
05 - Erase DTC Memory
Temperature Sensor Displays
The DTC memory can be erased only after

the VAS 5051 has read the memory. Erase
the DTC memory after repairing any malfunctions indicated by the DTCs. It is also
necessary to erase the DTC memory before
performing Basic Settings.
These are display fields that display the temperature for the various temperature sensors
used by the climate control system. If a sensor malfunctions, the A/C control head uses
internal stored default values. In some
instances, a default value may be displayed
on the scan tool. Be certain that you can tell
the difference between actual temperature
values and default values.
06 - End Output
End Output is used to exit from the A/C
System On Board Diagnostic (OBD) function.
Before entering function 06, make certain all
of the following have been completed:
DTC Memory checked
Malfunctions repaired
Basic Setting performed
DTC memory erased
A/C control head coding confirmed
07 - Code Control Module

Control module coding matches the control
module to a specific vehicle, the A/C compressor installed, the market application
(country code) and engine type. Zexel and
Denso compressors have been installed.
Always check for correct control

unit part number and coding when
diagnosing system faults!
08 - Read Measuring Value Block

The A/C control head receives input from the
passenger controls, temperature sensors
and flap motor position sensors. In response
to the inputs it produces output signals that
control compressor operation, temperature
regulation and air distribution. The VAS 5051
tester can monitor these inputs and outputs
in Read Measuring Value Block, function 08.
90
Flap motor position sensor displays

The voltage drop signal at the position sensors can be read directly on the VAS 5051. To
check the function of a flap, go to its position sensor display and watch the voltage
change as the flap is moved by the motor.
These display fields can be used if air distribution or temperature regulation is not working properly. Remember that the position
sensors are located inside the flap motor
housings. The motor and sensor may work
correctly, but mechanical problems such as
broken linkages or flaps may prevent proper
function.
Other signals
Voltage displays for the A/C compressor
clutch, the fresh air blower and instrument
illumination are available in the display
groups. Vehicle speed and engine RPM can
be displayed. Binary numbers (either "0" for
off or "1" for on) are displayed for compressor operation, temperature switches and
pressure switches.
A/C Refrigerant System Service

Introduction to A/C Refrigerant
System Service
Prior to 1992, the service of automotive air
conditioning systems could be performed by
anyone with access to a manifold gauge set,
16 oz. cans of R-12 refrigerant and a can tap.
Refrigerant was inexpensive, plentiful and
considered safe. Do-it-yourselfers routinely
topped off leaking A/C refrigerant systems to
keep their air conditioners working in the
summer, rather than paying for repairs.
In service shops, refrigerants were routinely
vented to the atmosphere whenever service
or repair required opening the refrigerant circuit. At the time, the environmental effects
were unknown and there was no practical
way of recovering refrigerant. R-12 was so
cheap that its complete loss and replacement cost very little.
Ozone Depletion
This changed when it was discovered that R12 refrigerant released into the atmosphere
could seriously damage the Ozone layer that
exists in the stratosphere 16-48 kilometers
(10-30 miles) above the Earth's surface. This
Ozone layer shields the earth from much of
the sun's ultraviolet radiation. Two thirds of
all refrigerants released into the atmosphere
come from mobile sources - automobiles.
Refrigerant R-12 is a chlorinated fluorocarbon
(CFC). When released into the atmosphere,
radiation from the sun breaks down this
chemical, releasing Chlorine atoms. Ozone is
a form of Oxygen with three Oxygen atoms
in its molecule (O3) rather then the two
atoms found in atmospheric Oxygen
molecules that we breathe (O2). When a
Chlorine atom released from CFCs encounters an Ozone molecule, it combines with
one Oxygen atom to form Chlorine
Monoxide, leaving the two other oxygen

atoms to form a free Oxygen molecule. This
destroys the ultraviolet-blocking Ozone
molecule. Neither Chlorine Monoxide nor
Oxygen can block ultraviolet radiation.
R-134a refrigerant has almost no Ozonedepleting effects.
Global Warming
Energy from the sun drives the earth's
weather and climate. Sunlight heats the
earth's surface, and some of the sunlight is
reflected in the form of infrared radiation.
Much of this radiant energy dissipates into
space, but some is reflected back into the
atmosphere. Atmospheric greenhouse gases
(water vapor, Carbon Dioxide, and other
gases) trap some of the outgoing energy,
retaining heat somewhat like the glass panels of a greenhouse. The trapping of too
much radiant heat energy is suspected to
cause Global Warming. There is strong evidence that the quantities of Carbon Dioxide
in the atmosphere and average world temperatures have risen over the last 100 years.
Carbon Dioxide, one of the gases emitted by
internal combustion engines, has a significant greenhouse effect. R-12 refrigerant in
the upper atmosphere has a Global Warming
Potential (GWP) 8,500 times greater than
Carbon Dioxide.
R-134a refrigerant is better, but still has a
GWP value of 1,300.
91

The Montreal Protocol
The discovery of Ozone layer depletion and
Chlorine's contribution to its depletion
caused the governments of the industrialized
world to meet in the mid 1980s to establish
a time table for the reduction and eventual
elimination of the production of chemicals
that deplete the Ozone layer. The Montreal
Protocol was enacted in September 1987
and laws were enacted requiring the automotive service industry to modify the servicing of A/C refrigerant systems.
The Industry Responds

The automotive industry's response to
ozone depletion from A/C refrigerants has
taken two paths. First, all refrigerants used
in automotive air conditioners must be
recovered and recycled whenever an A/C
system is opened for service or repair.
Technicians servicing A/C systems must be
trained and certified to perform the recovery
and recycling and the equipment used must
also be certified to assure that refrigerants
do not escape into the atmosphere.
R-134a refrigerant
Recycled refrigerants must meet a purity
standard to maintain the auto industry's warranties for A/C systems and components.
Caution: Unapproved replacement refrigerants may be in the

system! Recovering these alternative refrigerants will contaminate the service station and supply tank!
92
Second, refrigerant R-12 has been replaced

with a less harmful refrigerant. R-134a is the
only alternative refrigerant for R-12 that is
approved for use in new automobiles by all
auto manufacturers. Audi phased-in the use
of R-134a in 1993.

A/C Refrigerant Service
Responsibilities
ACR3 for R-12

refrigerant
A/C Service Equipment

All automotive service facilities performing
A/C repairs must have separate equipment
for the recovery and recycling of R-12 and R134a refrigerants. If a service shop uses any
other alternative refrigerant, it must have
equipment for that refrigerant as well.
All refrigerant recovery and recycling equipment must be certified to meet performance
standards and recycled refrigerant purity
standards set by the Society of Automotive
Engineers (SAE).
KENT-MOORE
ACR4 for R-134a

refrigerant
Any person who services a

motor vehicle air conditioner
MUST by law be properly trained
and certified and must use
approved refrigerant recycling
equipment. Technicians must
complete an EPA approved recycling course and test to be certified.
Technician Certification
Certification programs are available from
organizations such as The National Institute
for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and
The Mobile Air Conditioning Society (MACS).
Some state and local jurisdictions have their
own certification requirements that supersede the federal requirements.
93

ACR4 Equipment Maintenance
Instructions for setting up and maintaining
recovery and recycling equipment come with
the machines. Maintenance items listed here
for the ACR4 will be similar to equipment
maintenance for machines from other manufacturers. Always consult the operator's
manual for the equipment in your shop for
specific maintenance procedures.
Vacuum pump oil change

The ACR4 has a high vacuum pump for evacuating the A/C system to remove moisture
and contaminants. The vacuum pump is
shipped without oil and must be filled prior
to use. When the vacuum pump has run for
a total of ten hours, an "oil" message will
flash on the control panel display as a
reminder. Regular oil changes are necessary
to keep the pump operating efficiently.
Consult the operator's manual for specific
maintenance procedures.
Sight
glass
Oil drain
plug
ACR4 high vacuum pump
94

Filter/Drier Cartridge Replacement
The filter/drier traps acids, particulates and
moisture during the recycling phase of A/C
system service. A moisture indicator sight
glass on the control panel will change color
from green to yellow to indicate when the
filter/drier is saturated and should be
replaced. Typically the filter/drier can process
136 kg (300 lb) of refrigerant before requiring
replacement.
Replacement requires the recovery of refrigerant from the filter/drier before removal to
prevent refrigerant from being released into
the atmosphere. A service port is provided.
Follow the procedures in the operating
Instructions book.
Service Port
Unit Leak Check

The procedures for this check are described
in the operating Instructions book. Use a
leak detector approved for R-134a to check
for leaks every three months. This check may
be mandatory in some state or local jurisdictions.
Scale Accuracy Check

A check of scale accuracy is necessary to
see that the correct quantity of refrigerant is
pumped into the A/C system during recharging and to make sure that the unit tank will
be filled to no more than 60% of its capacity
during recovery or filling. If the scale is inaccurate, it must be repaired by the manufacturer. A check for scale accuracy should be
performed every three months.
Unit tank
scale
95

Always wear eye protection conforming to ANSI standard Z87.1
when discharging, evacuating or
recharging an A/C system.

Procedures, R-134a
Diagnosis and repair of refrigerant system
malfunctions will often require recovery and
recharging of the refrigerant. The only accurate way to determining if a system has the
correct amount of refrigerant is to recover
and recharge.
Service Valves
The A/C service ports on the vehicle are useful for monitoring A/C system pressures
when checking the operation of the system
or its sensors and switches.
All models have high and low pressure service valve ports available to monitor pressures and to service the refrigerant system.
High side
service valve
Low side
service valve
A4
96

Preparation for Recovery
Follow the operating instructions for the
recovery machine you are using. Eye protection is required, as you will be opening the
refrigerant system to install the service
hoses.
The control panel of the service station has
the high side and low side pressure gauges
and also high side and low side service
valves. The low pressure valve and hose is
always blue and the high pressure valve and
hose is always red.
Low side
valve
High side
valve
ACR4 control panel
Attach the quick connect couplers to the A/C

system's service fittings. The couplers and
service fittings are different sizes for the
high and low sides to prevent reversing the
connections.
Open the valves on the couplers by turning
the knobs in a clockwise direction. This
action moves a pin forward into the service
fitting and depresses a Schrader valve, opening the A/C system to the gauge and service
station. Opening the system by turning the
valves in a clockwise direction may seem
confusing, as this direction is normally used
to close a valve. Just remember that this is
the correct direction to screw the depressing
pin forward in order to open the Schrader
valve.
An A/C Schrader valve is like the

valve in a tire valve stem, but tire
Schrader valves are NOT identical.
Do not use Schrader valves
intended for tires on A/C
systems!
Check the gauges on the control panel

before continuing. If the pressure readings
are zero, the system is discharged and may
contain air. Do not attempt recover refrigerant, as this will draw the air into the recovery tank.
If pressure readings are not zero, open the
valves on the unit tank and recovery
machine as described in the operating
instructions.
High side service fitting
97

Do not reuse recovered refrigerant oil. It absorbs moisture from
the air and may contain contaminants from the A/C system.
Moisture in refrigerant oil forms
acids that can damage the A/C
system.
Preparation of the Oil Separator

During the recovery process, some of the
A/C system PAG oil may be drawn out of the
circuit with the refrigerant. The recovery
machine will separate this oil from the refrigerant and hold it in a separate container.
The oil can be drained from the oil separator
and its volume measured to determine the
quantity of oil to replace.
Oil drain
valve
Drained oil
catch bottle
Be certain that the oil separator is empty

before recovering refrigerant from a system.
This is necessary in order to correctly measure the quantity of oil removed during the
recovery process. Follow the operating
instructions to drain the oil.
R-134a systems use Polyalkylene Glycol
(PAG) oil for lubrication. It is not compatible
with mineral based R-12 compressor lubricating oil and the two oils must not be interchanged or mixed.
Obey laws governing the disposal

of hazardous waste when discarding used refrigerant oil. DO
NOT mix PAG oil with used motor
oil.
A/C compressor identification label
98

Refrigerant Recovery
To recover refrigerant from the vehicle A/C
system, the service station vapor and liquid
tank valves, and also high and low side
gauge valves must all be open.
Audi repair information requires that all
refrigerant service be performed through the
high side service fitting, although some current model Audis also have low side service
fittings. Instructions for the ACR4 service
station allow recovery from both sides.
Regardless of the recovery procedures or
equipment used, the recovery process will
remove the refrigerant until a shallow vacuum of approximately 17 in. Hg exists in the
refrigerant system. The machine will automatically shut off when this vacuum is
attained.
The recovery process is not intended to produce a high vacuum, but to only remove the
refrigerant.
Completing the recovery procedure

After initial recovery, the operating instructions require a waiting period of five minutes
with the recovery machine off, hoses still
connected to the A/C system and valves
open.
During this time, pressure may build up in
the refrigerant system again. This occurs
because liquid refrigerant remaining in the
system boils in the low pressure conditions.
Observe the low side gauge. If the pressure
rises above 0 in. Hg, perform the recovery
process again. Continue to repeat this
sequence of recovery and waiting until the
vacuum in the system does not rise above
0 in. Hg.
Note that the high vacuum pump is not used

for recovery. Creating a high vacuum at this
time will cause any water left in the system
to boil which will then be recovered with the
refrigerant. This would require more frequent
replacement of the filter/drier. Any moisture
present in the system will be removed during evacuation phase of the service.
Measure the recovered oil

After the recovery machine shuts off, drain
and measure the oil from the oil separator.
Record the amount of oil. This is the quantity
of fresh oil that must be added to the A/C
system when it is recharged.
Recovery completion
When all refrigerant has been recovered,
close the valves on the control panel of the
recovery equipment and don't forget to
close the valves on the unit tank.
In most cases, it is at this point that recovery equipment will be put aside while diagnosis or repairs are made. Before disconnecting the service hose couplers, remember to turn the quick connect coupler valves
fully counterclockwise to allow the Schrader
valves in the service fittings to close.
Evacuation
Evacuation is the process of creating a high
vacuum in the empty A/C system on the
vehicle. Evacuation removes any air present
and lowers the pressure in the A/C refrigerant circuit to the point where any liquid
water in the system will boil and vaporize at
normal ambient temperatures. This water
vapor will then be drawn out and removed
by the high vacuum pump. A vacuum of at
least 29 in. Hg is necessary for this to occur.
99

There are several reasons for evacuating an
A/C refrigerant system:
It is a necessary part of normal service
after opening the system.
The system is contaminated with water
from being left open.
It is not known if the system has been
left open.
It is part of a system leak check.
For the evacuation process to be effective
and for all moisture to have sufficient time to
vaporize and be removed, Audi requires that
evacuation be performed for at least 30 minutes.
ACR4 high vacuum pump
Low side pressure gauge
ACR4 control panel
After several minutes of evacuation, observe

the low side gauge. It should read a high
vacuum of 25 to 30 in. Hg. If the gauge
reads near 0 in. Hg, there may be a large
vacuum leak that must be repaired before
proceeding.
If a high vacuum is attained after several
minutes, shut off the vacuum pump and
observe the low side gauge. The high vacuum reading should hold for a few minutes. If
the high vacuum is not maintained, find and
repair the leak and repeat these procedures.
Once the vacuum holds, continue the evacuation process.
If the A/C system is known to be heavily
contaminated, it should be recharged and
the fresh charge then recovered. Evacuate a
second time. If necessary, repeat recharging
and evacuating several more times until the
system is clean.
100

Refrigerant Recycling
During the evacuation process, the refrigerant is recycled and is pumped continuously
through the filter/drier. No special action is
required for this to take place as long as the
unit tank valves are open. Observe the sight
glass and moisture indicator. The color of the
indicator must show that the refrigerant has
been dried. If not, the filter/ drier must be
replaced.
Replacing PAG Oil

Once the system has been evacuated, it is
ready to be recharged with refrigerant. If any
oil was recovered, it must be replaced at this
time before recharging can begin.
Do not attempt to add oil to a system that is
pressurized. The pressure will blow the oil
out of its container.
Take care not to let the oil container run out
of oil. If this occurs, air will be drawn into
the refrigerant system and evacuation will
again be necessary.
Always keep oil containers tightly sealed.
PAG oil absorbs moisture rapidly. Any container of PAG oil that is left open must be
discarded and must not be used.
Remember, PAG oil cannot be disposed or
combined with waste petroleum based oils.
Audi specifies more than one

type of PAG oil. Be sure to properly identify the compressor
used in the system and consult
the service information for the
correct oil.
Moisture indicator
ACR4 control panel
Follow instructions for the equipment you are using to inject fresh
oil. Most charging equipment will
use the vacuum created during
the evacuation process to draw
oil into the refrigerant system. Do
not add too much oil!
PAG oil
storage
PAG oil
injection
valve
PAG oil
bottle
ACR4 rear panel
101

Recharging
Do not attempt to charge an A/C
refrigerant system through the
high side service valve with the
engine running and the A/C compressor engaged. The high pressures developed may cause the
service hoses or charging equipment to burst!
Do not attempt to pump liquid
refrigerant into the low side with
the engine running and the A/C
compressor engaged. Liquid
refrigerant will cause hydro-lock
and damage to the compressor.
A/C refrigerant systems can be recharged by

either pumping refrigerant into them or by
allowing the A/C system compressor to draw
the refrigerant gas into the low side of the
system.
The ACR4 and similar R-134a service equipment pumps liquid refrigerant into the system with engine and A/C OFF. Liquid refrigerant is always introduced on the HIGH SIDE
ONLY to avoid the possibility of it getting
into the compressor. When recharging, the
service station operating instructions usually
require the low side valve on the control
panel to be closed.
Refrigerant charge quantity is determined by

weight. The amount of refrigerant charge
required is listed on a label in the engine
compartment and also in the service information.
Check the service station unit tank to be
sure that hoses are not stretched and that
the tank rests squarely on its base. The scale
weighing the refrigerant is under the unit
tank.
The unit tank must contain sufficient refrigerant to charge the system. Procedures for
checking the amount of refrigerant in the
unit tank are in the operating instructions.
Enter the desired refrigerant weight on the
charging equipment keypad. Be sure the unit
tank valves, high side quick connect coupler
valve and high side gauge valve are open.
Also verify that the low side valves are
closed.
102

As refrigerant is pumped from the tank, the
tank weight decreases. The charging process
will stop when the weight of refrigerant
charged equals the amount programmed.
Make sure that nothing alters the weight of
the unit tank while charging is taking place.
Do not place anything on top of the tank and
do not lean against it. Do not move or jar the
machine. Any change in the measured
weight of the unit tank that does not come
from charging the A/C system will cause an
incorrect quantity of refrigerant to be
pumped into the system. An incorrect
charge amount can cause A/C system performance problems or component damage.
After charging is complete, the service information requires that the compressor shaft
be rotated hand at least ten revolutions. This
will assure that no liquid refrigerant is in the
compressor.
High side
hose (only)
Low side hose

(do not use)
Unit tank scale
(do not disturb
tank during
recharging)
ACR4 rear panel
Start the engine with the A/C off. Allow the

engine idle to stabilize, turn the A/C on and
allow the engine to idle for two minutes.
Refrigerant and oil will circulate throughout
the system.
Performance test the A/C system as
described in the service information to check
for proper function.
When charging has been completed and the
system performance verified, close the high
side service valve on the quick connect coupler and remove the hose from the fitting.
Recover the refrigerant from the hoses and
close the valves on the control panel and
unit tank.
103

A/C System Flushing
The Repair Manual provides instructions for
flushing the refrigerant system using compressed air and Nitrogen. System flushing
may be necessary if:
PAG oil is contaminated
Too much oil or unknown quantity of oil is
in system
Moisture or dirt has entered system
Refrigerant system has been left open
Compressor is replaced due to internal
damage
Certain components are replaced
Components that can be flushed:
condenser, evaporator, lines and hoses
Follow recommendations for system flushing

in the Repair Manual.
All components must be removed from
the system before flushing. Do not blow
compressed air into a closed system or
into a component that is not open at both
ends.
Use compressed air to flush oil and dirt
and dry the component using Nitrogen.
Always use pressure regulators for
compressed air and Nitrogen.
Replace any components heavily
contaminated or having deposits that
flushing cannot remove.
Do not blow compressed air or Nitrogen
through the compressor or restrictor.
Components which must be replaced

after flushing: receiver/dryer,
accumulator, restrictor
104
After flushing, always replace the accumulator and restrictor, and on expansion
valve systems, replace the receiver/dryer.
Review Questions
Review Questions - A/C Refrigerant
System Service
1. To open the refrigerant system to
the recovery equipment, the
knobs on the quick disconnect
couplers:
a. screw or thread onto the service
fittings.
b. are turned counterclockwise after
connecting to the service fittings.
3. The purpose of the oil catch

bottle on the ACR4 is:
a. to determine how much oil has
been removed from a refrigerant
system.
b. to change the oil in the high
vacuum pump.
c. are turned clockwise after

c. to recover used oil to put back

into the refrigerant system when
it is recharged.
d. are turned clockwise before

d. to lubricate the recovery pump.
2. One indication that the filter/drier

cartridge on the ACR4 needs to
be replaced is that:
a. the machine has been in use for
six months.
b. the unit tank is full of recycled
refrigerant.
c. The beeper on the control panel
goes off.
d. The moisture indicator doesn't indicate that the refrigerant has been
dried.
4. The low side gauge reading rises

from 17 in. Hg to a positive pressure five minutes after the refrigerant had been recovered from a
system. What is the most likely
reason for this?
a. There is a leak in the system.
b. Liquid refrigerant is boiling off in
the system.
c. Ambient temperature is rising.
d. Ambient temperature is dropping.
5. What is the main purpose of
evacuating a system?
a. To remove air from the system.
b. To remove old oil from the system.
c. To boil off and remove water from
the system.
d. Both A + C
105
Refrigerant System Performance Testing

Refrigerant System Performance
Testing
Radiator
Condenser
Air guides
An A/C system performance test should be

conducted to verify a customer complaint of
poor cooling performance and also to verify
that repairs have corrected a cooling performance problem.
Remember, the A/C system MUST be
mechanically OK before condemning any
controls or electronics.
The exact procedures may differ from model
to model but in general all performance testing includes the following steps.
Visual Inspection:
Check the condenser and radiator. The
cooling fins must be clean and unobstructed.
Check the air guides to be sure they are
in place and all air flow is directed
through the condenser and radiator
Check the drive belt for the A/C
compressor for condition and proper
tension
Dust and pollen filter must be clean
Test Conditions:
Engine at operating temperature
A/C clutch engaged
1998 A6 dust and pollen filter
Radiator coolant fan running

Hood closed
Engine running at 2000 RPM during test
106
Refrigerant System Performance Testing

Manual A/C or Automatic climate control Control Settings:
Temperature control to lowest setting
Fresh air/recirculation control to recirculation mode
Fresh air blower to highest speed
Air discharge to the center vents
Check the following:

Ambient air temperature
Dual temperature control

climate control head
Temperature of air coming from the

center vents
Compare the measured temperatures with
the graph in the service information. If the
specified temperatures are not obtained, follow the diagnostic procedures to determine
the cause of the poor cooling condition.
Conclusion
Remember, the A/C system performance
test can be performed:
At the beginning of a diagnostic
sequence for a poor cooling complaint
To verify performance after repairs
As a quality check for normal A/C system
service
This performance test should be performed
any time the refrigerant system is recharged.
Vent temperature C (F)

C (F)
8 (46)
7 (45)
6 (43)
5 (41)
4 (39)
3 (37)
2 (36)
1 (34)
0 (32)
15 (59) 20 (68) 25 (77) 30 (86) 35 (95) 40 (104)
1
Ambient temperature C (F)
Typical vent temperatures only.

Always consult AESIS.
107
Refrigerant System Diagnosis

If the A/C System Performance Test shows
that the air temperature at the center vents
does not drop to acceptable values as specified in the graph, diagnosis of the system is
needed. The problem may exist in any of the
three subsystems of the heating and air conditioning system. Isolating the problem to
the correct subsystems can speed diagnosis
and repair.
Possible causes are listed here under the
appropriate subsystem headings:
Heat Transfer System Diagnosis

Dust and pollen filter blocked
Warm air leak from heater core
Outside air in air stream
Fresh air blower too slow or inoperative
Air distribution flaps misadjusted
Temperature regulation flap misadjusted
Flap motors, vacuum servos and linkages
Electrical System & Controls

A/C compressor clutch
A/C pressure switches
Refrigerant charge too low
Electronic engine coolant temperature

thermal switch (manual A/C)
Refrigerant leak
Engine coolant temperature sensor
Refrigerant charge too high
Ambient temperature switch
Too much oil in refrigerant
Outside air temperature sensor
Moisture in refrigerant
Intake air duct temperature sensor
Blockage in refrigerant circuit
A/C vacuum solenoids
Restrictor too large or missing
ECM compressor cut-out signal
Expansion valve defective
TCM kick down signal
A/C compressor damaged or worn
Engine RPM signal
A/C compressor control valve stuck
A/C clutch control module
A/C compressor clutch slipping or not

engaging
A/C control head
A/C compressor drive belt slipping

Radiator coolant fan not running
Engine overheating
Condenser dirty or blocked
Evaporator blocked
Evaporator "iced"
108
Wiring between electrical components

Tools for Diagnosis
The Automatic climate control control system has On Board Diagnostic (OBD) capabilities.
VAS 5051 Diagnostic Tool

The VAS 5051 tester has expanded OBD
functionality, trouble codes, diagnostic information, a built in multimeter and two-channel oscilloscope. Some of the areas most
useful to the technician will be Test
Instruments, Vehicle Self Diagnosis and
Guided Fault Finding.
VAG 1598 Test Box

Electrical testing of the Automatic climate
control system can also be performed using
the VAG 1598 test box, harness adapters and
a multimeter.
VAS 5051
Adapters
The adapters connect to wiring harness connectors for making resistance and voltage
tests on the A/C electrical circuit components and wiring.
VAS 5255
for 2-pin connectors
VAS 5256
V.A.G 1598
V.A.G. 1598 A
VAS 5256/1 for 2-pin connectors

VAS 5257
VAS 5258
109

Manifold Pressure Gauges
AESIS and the service information lists pressure specifications for the refrigerant system
high side. Both operating pressures and static pressures are included. Manifold pressure
gauges can determine charge quantity, high
side pressures and temperatures and the
condition of the refrigerant circuit and components.
Pressure gauges built into the service station can be used for this diagnosis as well as
service.
Dial Thermometer
Dial thermometer
The A/C system performance test requires

the use of a dial thermometer to measure
the instrument panel center vent air temperature. It can also be used to make ambient
temperature readings. Comparing measured
temperatures with service information specifications can help to determine system performance.
Hand Vacuum Pump

Vacuum servos are used for the fresh air/
recirculation flap and engine coolant shutoff
valves on some models. The hand vacuum
pump can be used to check the operation of
servos, vacuum lines and solenoids. It can
also be used as a vacuum gauge for checking source vacuum and applied vacuum.
Hand vacuum pump
110

Digital Multimeter (DMM)
The Fluke 83 Digital Multimeter is recommended for electrical testing of the
Automatic climate control System and manual A/C electrical circuits. The DMM can be
used to measure voltage, resistance and current.
Digital multimeter
US1122 Sensor Tester - Hot & Cold

This tester uses the shop's compressed air
supply to blow hot air from one end of the
tester and cold air from the other. This is
useful to test the operation of the temperature sensors for the Automatic climate control System.
The tester is manufactured by Kent-Moore
and is commonly referred to as a Choke
Tester.
Choke tester
Refrigerant Leak Detectors

New electronic refrigerant leak detectors are
available that can be used for both R-134a
and R-12 refrigerants. Older R-12 leak detectors will not work on R-134a systems, and
the new detectors can detect smaller refrigerant leaks than the old ones.
Leak tracing dyes are also available that can
be added to the refrigerant charge. If a leak
is present, the dye will be visible when
viewed under an ultraviolet light and can
help pinpoint the source of the leak.
Electronic leak detector
111

Service Information and Wiring
Diagrams
With your understanding of A/C system
operation, and available service information,
wiring diagrams and the tools listed above,
you should be able to isolate the cause of
A/C performance complaints.
Begin any diagnosis by checking the DTC
memory, repairing those malfunctions first.
The Repair Manual or Audi Electronic Service
Information System (AESIS) will guide you
through diagnosis and provide specifications
necessary to locate the cause of the problem.
R-134a Refrigerant pressure vs. temperature
Troubleshooting
If the A/C System Performance Test verifies
a customer complaint of poor cooling and
there are no DTCs in memory, you may be
able to locate the cause of the complaint by
checking A/C system refrigerant pressures.
Static refrigerant pressures are dependent
on ambient temperature (remember the earlier discussion of temperature and pressure
relationships and refer back to Heating and
Air Conditioning Basics).
The static pressures and temperatures table
can help determine if a refrigerant system
has an adequate charge.
Running A/C pressures and temperatures

table (for reference only)
112
The table for system operating pressures

and temperatures can also be used to diagnose refrigerant system problems.

Using A/C System Pressures to
Diagnose Performance Complaints
Current production Audi models have both
high and low side service ports. Refer to
AESIS or service information for low and
high side pressure specifications. Diagnostic
procedures based on evaluation of high and
low side pressures are also included.
A summary of pressure conditions and possible causes are described in this section.
These are typical pressures only.

Variable displacement compressors can compensate for some
faults and conditions and display
near-normal pressures. Refer to
Refrigerant Pressures and
Temperatures Checking tables,
and set the A/C system controls
to the conditions listed in the service information.
High side
service valve
Low side
service valve
A4
Condition 1: High pressure remains at

static pressure and increases only
slightly, low pressure drops quickly to
suction pressure.
This usually indicates a low refrigerant
charge.
Check for leaks.
Check for discharge from pressure relief
valve.
Repair leaks.
Find and correct cause of pressure
release.
Recover and recharge refrigerant.
113

Condition 2: High pressure increases
only slightly above static pressure,
low pressure drops only slightly
below static pressure
Condition indicates a faulty compressor.
Recover refrigerant.
Flush with compressed air and Nitrogen.
Replace A/C compressor, evacuate and
recharge system.
A/C compressor faulty
Condition 3: High and low pressures

normal. After a period of time, high
pressures rise above specified value,
low pressure drops below specified
value
Moisture in system, restrictor or expansion
valve icing.
Recover and recycle refrigerant.
Flush with compressed air and Nitrogen.
Replace accumulator and restrictor, or
receiver dryer and expansion valve.
Recharge system.
Moisture in system, restrictor ices up
114

Condition 4: Low pressure too low,
low pressure switch shuts off compressor, proper cooling performance is
obtained when system operates
Low pressure switch faulty.
Compressor faulty.
Check switching pressure of low pressure switch.
If switching pressure is OK:
Flush system with compressed air and
Nitrogen.
Low pressure switch faulty
Replace A/C compressor, evacuate and

recharge.
Condition 5: Low pressure too low,

low pressure switch shuts off compressor, proper cooling performance is
not obtained when system operates
Low refrigerant charge
Check for refrigerant leaks.
Check switching pressures of low
pressure switch.
Replace switch if faulty.
Low refrigerant charge
115

Condition 6: Low pressure too high,
high pressure normal or increases
above specified value
System is overcharged
Recover refrigerant 200 grams at a time,
recheck system pressures.
If high and low pressures are normal:
Recover, evacuate and recharge system.
System is overcharged
If high and low pressures are still not correct:

Compressor is faulty, replace.
Condition 7: Low pressure normal,

high pressure normal, proper cooling
performance is not obtained
Too much refrigerant oil in system
Flush system with compressed air and
Nitrogen.
Evacuate and recharge system.
Too much oil in system
116
Refrigerant High
Pressure Switch
F118
F23/
F118
Sensor for Air Quality
Refrigerant High
Pressure Switch
F76
Compressor Speed
Sensor
Electronic Engine
Coolant Temperature
Thermal Switch
F73
High Pressure Sensor
Refrigerant Low
Pressure Switch
F23
Audi
F129
G65
G111
G238
X
(phase
out)
X
(phase
in)
A/C Pressure Switch
Refrigerant High
Pressure Switch
Appendix 1: Application Table
Model and Year
System
Type
Compressor
Type
TT
Expansion
Valve
Sanden
A4 (3.0)
2002
Restrictor
Nippondenso
w/N280
No clutch
A4 (1.8T)
1997-2002
A4 (2.8)
1997-2001
S4 2000>
A4 (2.8)
1996
A4 (2.8)
1996
Restrictor
Zexel without
speed sensor
Restrictor
Nippondenso
Restrictor
Nippondenso
(from mid-year)
Restrictor
A6 (1.8T, 2.7,
4.2) 2002
A6 (3.0)
2002
Restrictor
Zexel w/speed
sensor (phase
out mid-year)
Zexel without
speed sensor
A6 1998-2001
A6 1997
A6 1996
Restrictor
Nippondenso
w/N280
No clutch
Nippondenso
Restrictor
Nippondenso
Restrictor
Nippondenso
(from mid-year)
A6/S6
1992-1996
Restrictor
Zexel with speed

sensor (phase
out mid-year)
A8 1999-2001
A8 1998
Restrictor
Nippondenso
Restrictor
Nippondenso
X (From
Control
Head
Index "J")
A8 1997
Restrictor
Nippondenso
X (With
Control
Head up
to
Index "H")
A8 1997
Restrictor
Zexel with
speed sensor
100/S4 1997
Restrictor
Nippondenso
100/S4 1996
Restrictor
Nippondenso
(from mid-year)
100/S4
1992-1996
Restrictor
Zexel with speed

sensor (phase
out mid-year)
Cabriolet
1994>
90
1993-1995
Restrictor
Zexel with
speed sensor
Restrictor
Zexel with
speed sensor
Restrictor
X
X
117
Appendix 2: Glossary
Glossary
Accumulator - Refrigerant reservoir in
restrictor A/C systems. Receives vapor and
liquid refrigerant from evaporator to prevent
liquid from reaching the compressor.
Contains desiccant to remove moisture.
Ambient Air - Outside or surrounding air.
Ambient Temperature Switch - Outside air
temperature sensing switch that prevents
A/C operation when outside temperatures
are too low.
Change of State - Change in physical characteristics of matter. There are three common states of matter: solid, liquid and gas.
Chlorofluorocarbon - A family of chemicals
containing Chlorine and shown to cause
ozone depletion. Refrigerant R-12 is a chlorofluorocarbon.
Clutch - Electromagnetic device to connect
or disconnect compressor pulley and compressor shaft to the engine drive belt.
Atmospheric Pressure - Air pressure at a

specific altitude - at sea level, atmospheric
pressure is about 14.7 psi.
Clutch Pulley - Part of clutch assembly driven by belt at all times. The pulley freewheels
when the clutch is disengaged.
Axial Compressor - Compressor with pistons that reciprocate in parallel to the compressor shaft. All current Audi models use
axial piston swash plate or wobble plate
compressors.
Cold - Absence of heat.
Blower Fan - Fan that forces air past evaporator and heater core to circulate air in the
passenger compartment.
Condensation - Change of state from vapor

to liquid. Gases condense when giving up
Latent Heat.
Boiling Point - Temperature at which a liquid

changes state from liquid to vapor. This temperature changes with changes in air pressure.
Condenser - A/C system heat exchanger

where hot, compressed refrigerant releases
heat and condenses from a vapor to a liquid.
British Thermal Unit - Also BTU. The unit of

heat energy. The amount of heat required to
raise the temperature of one pound of water
one degree F.
Celsius - Temperature scale: 0C is freezing
point, 100 C is boiling point for water.
CFC - See Chlorofluorocarbon.
118
Compressor - Refrigerant pump that circulates and increases the pressure of refrigerant vapor.
Conduction of Heat - Ability of heat to travel within a substance.

Convection - Transfer of heat caused by circulation of a vapor or liquid.
Density - Weight or mass of a given volume
of a gas, liquid or solid.
Desiccant - Chemical which removes and
holds moisture from refrigerant.
Discharge Air - Air leaving vent outlets.
HFC - See Hydrofluorocarbon.
Discharge Line - Refrigerant high side line

connecting the compressor to the condenser. The compressor outlet line.
HFC-134a - Also R-134a. Refrigerant chemical designed to replace R-12. R134a does
not deplete the ozone layer.
Discharge Pressure - Pressure of the refrigerant as it leaves the compressor. High-side

pressure.
Heat - Energy of motion. All substances

above absolute zero contain heat.
Evacuate - To pump down the A/C system

to a deep vacuum of at least 29 in.Hg. to
remove air and moisture.
Evaporation - Change of state from liquid to
vapor. Liquids evaporate when absorbing
Latent Heat.
Heat Load - A measure of the amount of

heat the A/C system needs to remove from
the passenger's compartment. Increased
heat load will raise the temperature of the
refrigerant leaving the evaporator.
Heater Control Valve - Device for controlling the flow of coolant to the heater core.
Evaporator - A/C system heat exchanger

where liquid refrigerant takes on Latent Heat
and evaporates to change state from a low
pressure liquid to a vapor.
Heat Exchanger - Device for transferring

heat from one object to another, based on
the principle that heat will always travel from
the hotter object to the cooler.
Expansion Tube - See Restrictor.
Hg - Chemical abbreviation for Mercury.

Used when referring to vacuum (inches of
Mercury).
Expansion Valve - Valve that senses evaporator temperature and pressure to regulate
the amount of refrigerant metered into the
evaporator.
Fahrenheit - Temperature scale: 32F is
freezing point, 212 F is boiling point for
water.
Fixed Orifice Tube - See Restrictor.
Flush - Removal of particles and sludge by
running a solution through the lines and
components.
Freezing Point - Temperature at which a liquid changes state to solid.
Gas - The state of a material which does not
have a specific volume or shape. A vapor.
High Pressure Lines - Lines between compressor outlet and expansion valve or restrictor inlet that carry high pressure refrigerant.
High Side - Pressure of the refrigerant as it
leaves the compressor. Same as Discharge
Side.
Humidity - Moisture in the air.
Hydrofluorocarbon - A family of chemicals
that do not deplete Ozone like
Chlorofluorocarbons. Refrigerant R-134a is a
hydrofluorocarbon.
H Valve - A type of Expansion Valve used by
Audi. When lines are attached it has an "H"
shape.
119
Inches of Mercury - Unit of measure for
vacuum.
Latent Heat of Condensation - Amount of
heat given off to change a vapor to a liquid,
without actually decreasing the liquid's temperature.
Latent Heat of Evaporation - Amount of
heat required to change a liquid to a vapor,
without actually increasing the liquid's temperature.
Ozone - A molecule of three Oxygen atoms

(O3). At lower levels in the atmosphere,
Ozone causes photochemical smog, but in
the upper atmosphere, Ozone acts as a
shield against ultraviolet radiation.
Performance Test - A/C system test under
controlled conditions to check temperatures
and efficiency.
Polyalkylene Glycol - Also PAG. Type of
lubricating oil used with R-134a systems.
Liquid - The state of a material which has a

specific volume but does not have a specific
shape.
Potentiometer - A three-wire variable resistor, with Ground, reference and signal voltage connections.
Liquid Line - A/C lines between the condenser outlet and the expansion valve or
restrictor inlet. Refrigerant in these lines is a
liquid.
Pressure - Force per unit of area. Refrigerant

pressure is typically measured in pounds per
square inch (psi).
Low Pressure Cutout Switch - Disengages

compressor clutch when system pressure
drops too low.
R-12 - Dichlorodifluoromethane. Trade name

FREON.- This refrigerant was used prior to
R-134a. It was phased out because it is a
CFC and deteriorates the ozone layer.
Low Side - Pressure of the refrigerant as it

enters the compressor. Same as Suction
Side.
R-134a - Tetrafluoroethane. Trade name

SUVA. It is an HFC refrigerant that replaced
R-12 and is currently in use.
Magnetic Clutch - See Clutch.
Radiation - Passage of heat through air or

space. Heating occurs when these waves
contact an object.
Manifold Gauge - Pressure gauges and

manifold with control valves used to measure system pressures.
NTC - Negative Temperature Coefficient.
Electrical resistance decreases with increasing temperature.
Overcharge - Too much refrigerant in the
system.
Receiver Dryer - Combination device for

storing liquid refrigerant and removing moisture.
Reciprocating Compressor - Compressor in
which pistons travel back and forth in the
cylinders.
Recovery - The process of removing refrigerant from the A/C system and capturing it for
reuse.
120
Recycle - Filtering and removing moisture
and contaminants from recovered refrigerant
prior to reuse.
Suction Pressure - Pressure of the refrigerant as it enters the compressor. Low-side

pressure.
Reed Valves - One-way valves made from

leaves of thin steel sheet. They are located in
the A/C compressor cylinder head and control the direction of refrigerant flow.
Suction Side - See Low Side.
Resistor - Device used in electrical circuits

such as blower motors for dropping voltage.
Restrictor - Fixed orifice that meters refrigerant flow into the evaporator. Also called
Fixed Orifice Tube or Expansion Tube.
Schrader Valve - Spring-loaded valve similar
to a tire valve to hold refrigerant in the A/C
system at the service ports.
Temperature Sensor - Temperature-sensitive device which outputs a signal voltage in

proportion to the measured temperature.
Thermostatic Expansion Valve - See
Expansion Valve.
Ultraviolet radiation - Solar radiation from
low end of the spectrum. Known to cause
skin cancers, cataracts, reduce crop yields
and kill certain varieties of plankton and larvae in the oceans.
Undercharge - A system low on refrigerant.
Sensible Heat - Heat energy that causes a

substance to change temperature without
changing state.
Vacuum - A pressure below atmospheric

pressure; a negative pressure.
Service Port - Fittings to permit access to

service the A/C system. Usually there are
High Side and Low Side Service Ports.
Vacuum Pump - Mechanical pump which

can create a deep vacuum of at least 29
in.Hg. in the A/C system. Used to remove all
air and moisture.
Servo Motor - Vacuum or electric motor

used to position air control flaps in the air
distribution box.
Vapor - A gas, usually used when referring

to the gaseous state of refrigerant or water.
Sight Glass - A transparent window in the

liquid line to aid in determining the level of
refrigerant charge in the system.
Variable Displacement Compressor - A

compressor which can change its output volume.
Solid - The state of a material which has a

specific volume and shape.
Water Valve - See Heater Control Valve.
Stratosphere - Upper level of the earth's

atmosphere.
Suction Line - Refrigerant line between the
evaporator outlet and the compressor inlet.
121
Knowledge Assessment
Knowledge Assessment
An on-line Knowledge Assessment (exam) is available for this SSP.
The Knowledge Assessment may or may not be required for Certification.
You can find this Knowledge Assessment at:
www.accessaudi.com
From the accessaudi.com homepage:

Click on the ACADEMY Tab
Click on the Academy Site Link
Click on the CRC Certification Link
For assistance, please call:

Audi Academy
Learning Management Center Headquarters
1-877-AUDI-LMC (283-4562)
(8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. EST)
iii
124

3800 Hamlin Road
Auburn Hills, MI 48326
Printed in U.S.A.
May 2002

Audi HVAC

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Audi HVAC

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Audi HVAC

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Heating,

Audi of America, Inc.

Air conditioning has many benefits. It

Warnings and Cautions

Servicing and repairing automotive heating

Before beginning this course, it is important

Toxic and/or poisonous substances can

Repair Group 87 contains an extensive list of

A/C manifold pressure gauges

Vaporizing refrigerant can cause frostbite

Blindness may result if refrigerant

Danger of High Temperatures

Store refrigerant containers at temperatures

Do not steam clean condensers

The Kent-Moore ACR4 Refrigerant

R-134a is not generally considered to be

Danger of Overfilling Refrigerant

Most Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling/

ACR4 recovery, recycling and

Do not attempt to recharge a

Service valves closed

The gauges read system pressure at all

The only purpose of the hand valves is to

Manifold pressure gauges read refrigerant

Safe Use of Manifold Pressure Gauges

Service valves open

R-134a high side service fitting

R-134a low side service fitting

R-134a quick-connect couplers

Hot coolant and coolant vapors

Cooling system pressure tester

When removing the pressure cap from the

Electric Cooling Fans

All current production Audis use electric

Use caution when working near

Coolant fan control

Environmental and Legal Responsibilities

ACR3 for R-12

Both refrigerants R-12 and R-134a must be

ACR4 for R-134a

4. Discharging refrigerant into the

b. is unavoidable from charging

d. All of the above

c. is illegal for both R-12 and R-134a.

2. When is it safe to open the

5. Mixing R-134a with R-12:

Heating and Air Conditioning Basics

Air Conditioning and Refrigeration

Heating and Air Conditioning Basics

This principle is demonstrated in two places

Heating and Air Conditioning Basics

Latent Heat is heat energy that is added to a

Latent Heat energy causes only

Heating and Air Conditioning Basics

In the A/C system, the refrigerant is allowed

Heating and Air Conditioning Basics

R-134a Refrigerant pressure vs. temperature

Refrigerant pressure in the closed A/C circuit

Arrow points toward evaporator

In the evaporator, refrigerant is exposed to