2013-2018 Rav4 A/C Condenser Replacement

[@TheKoderius]

I often see cars with plastic wiggly bits come back from the mechanic all mangled up - Eric is so considerate and respectful that it`s a joy to watch.

[@mattmanyam]

The effects of the "flat-rate" culture...

[@meatrocket1]

I agree..that’s the reason why I got hooked on his channel.

[@cmartin_ok]

The difference between someone "just doing a job" and someone who respects and cares for their customer and customer's property

[@DIYDaveOK]

Those jiggly bits can be insane-making. I lost track of how many *different* kinds of clips and retainers came into play when I was replacing a mangled inner wheel liner on my daughter's Corolla...

[@michaelschmidt5179]

@@DIYDaveOK Amazon has all that stuff. I got clips for my 4Runner grill that were dry rotted for dollars…I also grabbed a pack of assorted body panel clips. It’s come in handy on multiple vehicles we own.

[@garyhill1659]

Thanks!, I just want to say , coming from a technician with over 40 years experience under my belt. I'm really impressed at your technical skills. Your approach to diagnosing electrical & mechanical issues. To see your wife and you working together in your business Reminds me of my family and ours. Our shop was mainly A/C and Radiators. In the later years I became strong in electrical diagnosis and repairs. Along with a complete tire center.. keep up the great job. Ps please stop showing all that food ya'll cook. It makes my mouth water every time ! Especially the smoked ribs. Lol

[@fredwalker839]

Me too ! 50 years & still rollin ! 2 nd new hip tomorrow ! Just wore out,,,, but not dead! Have a good one !

[@ken7808]

Ohh, the ribs....

[@lvsqcsl]

That car has 34,000 miles on it and it needs an a/c condenser already? Wow! I would have thought Toyota would last longer. Great video!

[@tomoakhill8825]

This is my favorite kind of South Main Auto video. No computer diagnostics. Just straight up nuts and bolts. I love these. I could watch Eric O do a brake job once-a-day. I love the ball-joint, the stabilizer bar bushings, the wheel baring videos, and the exhaust manifold videos. I would love to see big jobs such as new head gaskets, new rings, or drive shafts. Has there ever been a SMA video showing an engine replacement? I do understand the value of the "how to use problem codes" to diagnose the source of the problem. They are wonderful displays of how a Grand Master Mechanic thinks. But I like these nuts and bolts videos much better.

[@leninmi7579]

I love the new front license plate ❤️👍

[@chrisfreemesser]

Was just about to comment to Eric that he needs to modernize his "shop plate"...NY has had a new design for a few years now

[@TC-dw6wg]

@@chrisfreemesser why modernize and have to give NY more $$$. I’m 3 plates behind here in NY and will wait until they force me to upgrade and pay extra for plates because they decided to change the design AGAIN. I’ll keep the $30.00 in my pocket! OK! Back to SMA…..lol

[@meatrocket1]

I just want to say thank you for these videos 👍🏽 Since watching your KZbin videos, I’ve become brave enough to start working on my own cars.

[@nsangwaallenngwira1062]

meee too🙂

[@freetolook3727]

Watched a video of a 1973 Cadillac crashing into a 2003 Cadillac. The crash test dummy in the 2003 survived with what would be some broken bones. The crash test dummy in the 1973 had its head taken off by the steering column, chest imploded by the column and knees crushed by the dash board. It died about three different ways. You could see the frame buckle as it hit and the shock of the crash ripple the whole way through the car. The other car was crunched in the front to the firewall but it absorbed all the shock of the crash. Very telling video.

[@Apodalont]

Thank you my friend for working so hard making these videos. You've helped me and I'm sure countless other folks with diagnosis and repair. You're the man Eric!

[@markkrispin6944]

Mrs. O helping out and getting down and dirty with Mr. O. I love it!

[@rnreajr9184]

Mrs. O should make an appearance in every episode. We have to know that she's doing okay, since she's the one who keeps Eric grounded!

[@markkrispin6944]

@@rnreajr9184 I agree with you.

[@jeeprose4712]

I think I am right remembering that some other mechanics don't like how to DIY car repair channels. I helped someone yesterday who wanted to change the front breaks on a 2012 4Runner " With the big V8!" A tool box that could fix a bike. So got my Tools and jack. Breaker bar jack stands. We had to use the jack handle on the breaker bar to remember the lug nuts. Someone went full gorilla with the air gun, because 4 feet of pipe was barely working and thank God there are 6 lugs per tire. I could not stop him from using all his weight and 4 feet of pipe putting the lugs back on. Thank God he wanted to rotate the tires. 3 KZbin videos on how to jack up a car. He agreed with me. Showed him how to put a socket on the ratchet. Push the button. Had one stuck piston. 3 KZbin videos later he agreed to loosen the bleeder. I am glad he's trying, but he doesn't need my help. KZbin ain't helping him unless you want to start with you need tools and how to use them and listen to the old guy helping!

[@dorightal4965]

Most times recently when I have a new problem on one of my cars, or one of my kids cars, I research your videos to see if you've dealt with it before. You've saved me a lot of trouble and expense! I've learned a lot along the way. Thanks!

[@cardo1111]

Liking the new license plate. A departure from many other vids, a day in the life at a body shop, thought I was watching a post collision teardown.

[@rhadden8976]

You are right on target with the engineering on modern cars, maybe too much dependence on computers but still more dependable and safe then ever before.

[@billh230]

The problem with computerization of modern cars is 2-fold. 1) is you have a Federal government finding just about anything on a car they can regulate. 2) is a matter of content creep. What was available on only a few select cars 10-20 years ago is now demanded by the mass market. All of it needs to be controlled somehow.

[@kain0m]

The computers are what makes cars safer and more reliable. Just think of how stinking unreliable cars of the 60's and 70's were.

[@paulparoma]

*than.

[@billh230]

@@kain0m Yah, except electronics- what there was at the time- was no better. Automotive computers all grew up at the same time with the general overall rise in quality.

[@fredwalker839]

@@billh230 100%,,, I remember in the late 60’s,,, only rich people had A/C! Now “ nobody buys a car without it “ Global Warming from countries like India ! Aluminum, plastic, carbon fibre & newer “ crash absorbing “ Technology! LOL Hard to believe !

[@scotttierney4759]

Nice to see the Boss helping you out

[@Paul1958R]

Eric, Great video and repair - thank you! Just a bit surprised that you didnt vacuum, charge, and test it _before_ you put all the front bits back on. But I guess you have the experience to know that it would be ok and I respect that. Paul (in MA)

[@fredwalker839]

Even old dogs make mistakes ! Not this one ! I saw him torque the condenser lines ! Didn’t you ! LOL

[@jpag8764]

That’s what I love about my ‘06 Dodge Ram 2500. Open hood, disconnect lines, remove 4 bolts, remove condenser. Got a new one from NAPA (they wouldn’t sponsor me either). To install reverse removal process. Close hood. System self evacuated through gaping hole in front

[@ilike2watchdoyou]

Love your channel. That plug with the wide housing goes to the cruise control radar that is located behind the Toyota emblem on the bumper. The radar monitors the vehicles distance in front of you. It was available in select 2016-2018 Rav4 models.

[@oliver_klozoff]

I have the adaptive cruise in my 18 RAV4. It's awesome

[@kevinrenn9123]

I just posted the same comment, now I need to go back and delete it, lol

[@DaddyBeanDaddyBean]

I learn something here every time - it simply never occurred to me that if an AC system has already discharged itself through a leak, that Joe Shadetree Wrenchbender could replace AC parts at home and then have a shop do the vacuum & recharge. Great tip.

[@fredwalker839]

Just to be sure,,, push in the “shrader valves first ! “

[@yomomma9070]

A/C condenser at 34000? About as bad as my dad's Tacoma needing a compressor replaced @ 41K. I love what you do for me Toyota!

[@blake8297]

I was thinking the same thing.. Seems odd. I have vehicles that are 30yrs old and near 300,000miles with the original condenser, seems like they wouldve figured out how to make them by now.

[@MH-ev3wr]

Don't disagree, but this is better than the garbage Chrysler products that use PLASTIC refrigerant lines. Amazing they don't last very long, lol.

[@shirmworm]

I own a 2020 RAV4. Was helpful to get the insight of this type of repair. Thanks so much!!!

[@superduty4556]

Good luck with your 1234yf

[@raymondreiff8170]

I had the dealer do mine 1234yf, I guess not enough 🤑 was being made off of R-134A freon anymore, so the Asses change it AGAIN, It's 💯% unnecessary ❗.

[@braaapattack2937]

I feel you on the “amazed it runs”. Think about how many times the crank, cams, and everything else has spun in 50-100-150k or more, you’re at a number that’s so high no one can even comprehend, and now today driving a car with 200-300k isn’t out of the question, 50 years ago you hit 100k it was remarkable, now 100k is “it’s broke already?!?!”

[@demonknight7965]

01 tacoma pre runner 270k+ miles (has new starter and new idler pulley and new head gasket. Everything else is original. I did have to replace the power steering rack. But that's not engine related.

[@mikec81]

@@demonknight7965 most cars 2015 up have a hard time going 60k without something major going wrong. 1995-2005 was the golden age of automotive reliability imo.

[@lawnboy8401]

@@mikec81 Yep!

[@billh230]

Not a big fan of Toyota, but you gotta hand it to them. They build a quality, reliable car.

[@braaapattack2937]

@@billh230 reliable for sure, quality is abit, varied, from what generation. I have a 2011 corolla for a work car, minimal work in the 70k I’ve put on it (bought it with 97k), the interior and some exterior plastics def scream late 00’s, no shortage of plastic. But if I wanted a luxury car I would have bought a Lexus. It gets me to and from work at 36mpg, and keep the miles and salt off my truck 😂

[@johnschuler3269]

OMG ... In addition to your "Well-Balanced and Capable Skills" ... plus FINE DELIVERY and WORK ACUMEN AND ETHICS ... YOU ALSO have ... ... THE PATIENCE OF A SAINT !!! I am so glad you have your own shop and can thus make these fine videos for all of us! Aside: In an environment where complicated designs are fed into an also-complicated assembly system ... that is only the beginning of downstream repair challenges and nightmares. BTW ... when COMPLICATED SYSTEMS suffer a "bad ground" ... the complicated system (aka rule-following environment) immediately becomes a COMPLEX SYSTEM ... where no rules apply ... e.g. an ignition circuit getting its ground from a tail light wire, etc. THAT is why failures can be so "hairy" to track down. Only patience and "experiential logic" will prevail while random parts cannons will fail miserably and expensively. The REAL MIRACLE of auto repair might me the rare occasion when a modern vehicle is repaired on-time, economically and reliably. (As in your shop, Eric) THANK GOODNESS FOR SHOP OWNERS LIKE YOU ... and (e.g.) the Care Care Nut! ,,, ... and Scotty Kilmer in his own simplistic, but but helpful and entertaining way. For us Toyota / Lexus owners you and very few others ... are a God-Send!. BTW: I am glad that Google (in spite of all their crazy "over-rides and banishment of others") has developed the "monetary incentives" that "pay you" to do your videos for all of us ... and make you some money in the process. BTW # 2: I chose your PayPal link to send you a few bucks. In my own case as a DIYer and "Non-Mechanic", I spend HOURS at "KZbin University" before each of my own repair / maintenance challenges; because I am my own "Boss" in my own "Repair Garage", I am able to make decisions with no one to tell me otherwise. Examples: At 112K on the clock I got a "Money Light" for Bank 1, Sensor 1 on my 2003 RX-300 ... yep extremely low miles on my lovely and near-pristine "Gussied-up Toyota Highlander" ... which I bought used a few years ago ... after a 1-Year search. I bought both (new OEM) AFR Sensors and the single OEM O2 (downstream Bank 2, Sensor 2) .. and CHANGED ALL 3 on my vehicle on the same day. That way, I was able to do both the repair and preventive maintenance to fit my own patience and sanity (aka peace-of-mind) practice. Ditto both VVT Solenoids @ 114K with their little filters ... plus all 6 coils along with the plugs ... when I did the 120K service a little early. Thanks again for all you do ... so often and so well ... for so many of us, Eric! Warm Regards, John in the NW

[@patrickzadd5215]

Eric I’ve been a fan of your channel for a few years I admire your attention to detail your customers are very fortunate to have you as their mechanic.

[@ianloyd6384]

Right? How many shops wouldn’t have even realized that there was 3 black screws and 1 silver(in that one area) and would’ve jammed either of the 4 back in any spot. 🤦🏻‍♂️ imagine if ALL mechanics actually gave a s#!t??

[@feeshermann726]

You are 100% correct about buying a Denso condenser. I bought a TYC brand because I wanted to save a few bucks. When installing it today on my 2015 RAV4 LE, I discovered that the 4 legs attached to the condenser were narrower than the OEM unit. I had to be "creative" in order to make it fit. Not Ideal!!! Thanks for your amazing videos...much appreciated!

[@johnboywaltonbeard4699]

Eric O’ Love the Front License Plate on that Car!! You know we were all waiting for Mrs. O’ to help you put that Bumper Cover back on!!

[@28th_St_Air]

I just learned how crazy expensive it is to pay for this repair and your video showing all the labor for jiggly part removal/replacement helped me decide against tackling this myself. Aside from tires and brake pads, my rav has 85K miles with no other issues, so $1,200 to make it whole again is doable. You video is excellent. Thanks!

[@jonminer9891]

Hi, Mr. O. Lots of handy tips on this one. Plastic origami makes for beautiful cars. Remember, an engineer is an artist too! Thanks for sharing! Stay healthy!

[@DAKOTANSHELBY]

Eric, I've worked with both auto OEMs and Commercial truck OEMs. Spent a lot of time at assembly plants' End of Line. I have always been amazed when after all the assembly, for the most part, they start up and run and drive off the line! There's always a few that need to be pushed off, but not many. Those get fixed on a side line.

[@marlon2k9]

I've worked for a... ahem, major Detroit automaker that has been bought out a few times, for 12 years, and the same thing amazes me every single day. They actually run and drive right off the line. Except for those "few".

[@kain0m]

Lots and lots of engineering going into making sure that is the way it is. Automotive is an amazing field. It's the perfect balance of the cheapest, yet still reliable and funtional components possible. Cars are by far the most complex mass manufactured product on the planet. Any factory defect would lead to unbelievable costs for repair. If a car has a serious defect at the end of the assembly line, often times it is cheaper to scrap it than to repair. So making sure the assembly process is bulletproof is paramount.

[@twig3288]

@@marlon2k9 pity the poor customers that get one of the “few” 😦

[@LoneWolfSparty]

@@kain0m I'd say an airplane would be the most complex these days

[@ReservedForFutureUse]

@@twig3288 Its usually something really minor like an electrical connector didn't get seated all the way.

[@jorgefernandez-mv8hu]

My wife drives a 97 RAV4 and it does not have all that plastic on it but I tell you it is one dependable little truck. Great to watch you and the Mrs work together. You have a great day!

[@fredwalker839]

Eric: Earlier today ( I’m off work today, going for my 2nd hip replacement tomorrow! 50 yrs. & still running my shop) watched a 7 year old video with U & Ivan, pure example of 2 great minds with different approaches! Had to smirk! You two looked like “ kids” LOL ! How do you torque into plastic, tight is tight,,, loosey goosey is loose !Good job. My friend!

[@grantmclaren3626]

Im from South Africa and even here that is a very common problem on the Rav 4, and you right about the dye not always showing in that area. Must be a reaction between the different metals. I enjoy changing them being a toyota even comes apart and goes back together the way it should. Thanks for the awesome and always entertaining videos👍

[@naushad911]

It's good to see how complicated and fiddly the front end assembly is on these. If this job repeats itself in another five years, a lot of those clips and fasteners aren't going back in one piece!

[@GetReal3327]

Today's cars are really something else. Believe it or not, I have been driving since 1968, if you don't count all the midnight-runs I did with my dad's car when he was sleeping. I just got my very first car last year with computers running it all. No joking around. I'm living like the Jetsons (lol) with my 2008 Chevy Cobalt LS 4-door 2.2l with only 104,000 miles. Old-School DIY car mechanic.

[@paulkoontz6095]

I'll still put the old cars up to new ones, if the old ones quit it was one of a few things and maybe 30 minutes to. Like fuel pump 2 bolts 2 clamps good to go and where you could get to it. But I'm old and hate new cars by but glad Mr O puts out great videos to try and keep up. Have a good one.

[@SouthMainAuto]

Oh sure I can see both sides of the coin for sure. That is why I still own all pre emission tractors ;) I don't want any of the computer BS that comes with the new ones haha

[@mph5896]

@@SouthMainAuto Diesel emissions equipment feels about the same as 80's gas emissions stuff. 🤣

[@Cmlumley123]

I love that they used yellow plastic for the headlight locating dowels. Makes it pretty hard to forget a fastener.

[@qmanch]

Hi, air con was dead in my 2014 rav for some time. Replacement condenser has been seating on the shelf for probobly 3 months 😂. I watched this video and was planning only strip down the car tonight and carry on next day or so. 1.5h later all back together awaiting visit at the shop for refill. Thank k you for this helpful video

[@PhillipBailey]

Thanks Eric. This just saved me. I was having difficulty locating the leak but once you showed me where to look it was obvious! 2013 Rav4 same spot. The engineer must have moved to GM now though...

[@richardsalaverria9363]

Nice guided repair, fingers crossed my wife's 2018 Rav4 doesn't have this problem but it will be nice to have a reference video if it ever happens. Even as a professional mechanic it's handy to have a video to get an idea of what you're getting into. Thanks for the upload.

[@davidsantiago5937]

Awesome Job, just got my t-shirt came with no logo printed in back and they replaced it. Now I’m a walking comercial for you!!! Keep up the good work you and misses O.

[@jimpie231]

I had to change a bulb for my fog lights on my 2009 Honda CR-V. To access the bulb I had to drop the bumper cover. It wasn’t quite as elaborate as all your parts, but we (grandson helped)did it 20 minutes off and 10 minutes back on. The old cars you didn’t have to remove anything but the condenser. Great video, lots of patience & drive. God bless! Thanks…Jim

[@michaelsparacio8275]

I like the South Main Auto license plate cover. I'm from Long Island haven't been back since I got out of the Navy in 83

[@liamclarke64]

Ramblings of a mad man here - This is just what I needed to see!! I do not have to replace the condenser on a Rav4 any time soon. BUT, tomorrow, I have to tear into an OKI C931 Laser Printer further than I ever have before (replace 2nd registration rollers). 1 tool, #2 Philips screwdriver. But so many stupid connectors, and a crappy "service manual"... If you can do it, I can do it!!! Excellent video!!!!

[@oantech4252]

I just did this on my 2014 Rav4.. I went with an aftermarket for $75.00 and it fit perfect and works great.. The aftermarket doesn't use those silly top brackets that Toyota has that cause leaks. They weld the pins right where they need to be and the stock rubber grommets fit perfectly. The unit fits right in with no issues. I like to spray down the rubber grommets with WD-40 or silicone spray just to prevent dry rot and heat damage. Nice job... 👍 😁

[@lvsqcsl]

I believe my car actually has a bumper behind the cover, but you are right Eric, there isn't a whole lot there. Great video!

[@MiteyMOofyearsAgo]

Yepper , I have '17 rav and son of a sea biscuit if the condenser hadn't sprung a leak in that exact spot. I didn't see it at first but the sniffer alerted me and then I saw the dye. Thank you for sharing your experiences.

[@IronRiviera]

You have gotten very good at video production. I like to turn screws that go into plastics backwards, till they drop into a thread, then send them home.

[@AerinRavage]

I love seeing this comment, because it means I'm not the only person doing this!

[@lunaxhli]

Thank you for the video. You were spot on with the leak on the condenser. My condenser was leaking from the top as well.

[@jerryburdick8051]

I really appreciate videos like this. Folks see an a/c condensor, with a few fasteners and two connections, and wonder why it costs so much to replace. R&R is just as important, and I just really admire the way you work. Kudos!

[@jack002tuber]

That whole process of taking things apart and remember where everything goes. I used to kinda do that ok. There's so much to remember. I got to where I put the screws and bolts back in the thing I took off so I don't have to remember where it went. Making a video is an excellent tool. Make lots of vids and then study them to see what you did.

[@R_Forde]

I recommend taking lots of picture and also I can use my local library to access the Chilton Library data online. That help tremendously.

[@LadyAnuB]

@@R_Forde Also add coded plastic tubs be they margarine, lunch meat, to go containers, or actual store bought food storage containers

[@NBSV1]

I try to put bolts back and keep like fasteners grouped if they can’t go back in the holes. If just taking it apart then putting it right back together I can remember where stuff goes. But, it sucks when you take it all apart then have to wait a week or two for parts/approval/whatever. Or, sometimes one person takes it apart and another will put it together.

[@unclejediisampsonii3624]

I have a 2018 Rav4 , after seeing all that needs to be done to remove the condenser, I`m seriously thinking of selling, what an absolute joke , all that simply to get to the condenser, just LOL.. Thankyou

[@thomash1923]

Awesome! A video before bedtime. Thanks Mr O!

[@robpeters5204]

Mr. O. You are one class act to follow. I really like your tutorial style video! You make a very good instructor. One could learn from your east of explanation and years of experience. Love your apprentice Mrs.O. Lol! Keep up the excellent work! As for the Toyota Rav, it looks like they use a hodge lodge of fasteners to assemble this model together. Lol!

[@jfc5721]

Found you a month or so ago on KZbin and gotta say you are a mechanics, mechanic. Enjoyed every video. Thanks. John. Natchez Ms

[@arnoldm889]

I've been working on my own cars off and on for over 25 years. I've done transmissions, clutches, timing belts, steering racks, fuel pumps, suspension, rear main seals, etc and I've never torque wrenched anything lol. Had a few control arm bolts come loose but never had any big issues luckily.

[@chrissmithz314]

3:37 Feels like I'm standin there right next to ya, and you gave me that as a personal compliment. Thanks pop pop! PS, I don't care if that's weird, kinda felt nice hearing it.

[@SouthMainAuto]

You're welcome son...

[@robinsonsmotorcycleandauto3929]

Yep that is for if it had a Front Radar or Park Assist. Yours isn't equipped but if doing one with a radar would need to have calibration performed once finished per Toyota.

[@R_Forde]

My mechanic was complaining about the calibration requirement. He says he doesn't know any local independent shops that have the calibrator and it really expensive for the customer.

[@kennethd7048]

My 04 Volvo has 210,000 with no issues.. my 06 Volvo has 173,000 I just replaced the turbo.. you guys have a lot more rust than we do.. your a great mechanic just not used to the New York ism.. I'm in Ohio. Good job!

[@chrissmithz314]

27:44 I wholeheartedly agree. I replaced the condenser on my old subie myself. Rented a vacuum pump, and tried to diy recharge myself with a manifold gauge set, and a postal scale to weigh the cans. I think that subie called for 14oz-16oz of refrigerant, and people say they're super picky about how much refrigerant is in the system. Long story short, I got it done, but at the end I wasn't exactly sure how much refrigerant I got in the system. I knew it was somewhere around the correct amount, but I didn't like the feeling of uncertainty. If I had to do it again, I'd do the nuts and bolts part of replacing the condenser myself, and then let a shop do a proper recharge.

[@kd7cwg]

I got lucky on my minivan (olds silhouette) took exactly 36oz of refrigerant. I fixed the leaking service ports, pulled a vacuum and dumped in 3 12oz cans. Works ok, but between changing cans and purging the line, probably an oz or 2 short. Now that I am working at a shop, I can evacuate and recharge to the correct amount.

[@billh230]

@@kd7cwg Dual A/C? That's one hell of a lot of 134a! Most systems are happy with about 1/2 that.

[@kd7cwg]

@@billh230 yep, used to have a suburban 2500 with front/rear and I think it took even more 😳

[@kd7cwg]

I just looked it up. 64oz in the suburban.

[@billh230]

@@kd7cwg Looks like I need to review. Most aircon systems I've screwed with ate of the aftermarket/hot rod variety. I just leave evac and charging to the HVAC guys, while I do my thing.

[@floorpizza8074]

The PRNY's motto of "The Empire State" has taken on an all new meaning from what was originally intended.

[@68Polara500]

Curious how you determined that the condenser was bad. I'm a bit disappointed that the condenser had to be replaced so soon on a Toyota. Mine's been in my '12 Avalon since new! Great work on these videos. Loved seeing Mrs. O helping with the bumper. Showed it to my wife and she just rolled her eyes! Keep up the great work, Eric!

[@fredwalker839]

Your condenser weighs 20 lbs. This one weighs 2 !

[@garymeredith2441]

Mr O you are exactly right , cars that are built now are one hell of a lot safer than they used to be . I like the way you are making this point as you working on this Toyota . The only problem with modern cars are built nowadays is they don't have the same style in the look that they had in the 50s the 60s and the '70s but the new ones are one hell of a lot safer . As always thank you for this video there Eric .

[@fredwalker839]

I’m a car guy,,,, now they look all alike !

[@lonwillis783]

Really a Toyota? Wow 🥺 Thank You Eric for everything!

[@CarlosMonzonGraphicDesigner]

You are the best, Top of the line Mechanic, I was doing this job by my self in my wife 2018 RAV4 after this video :) I was saving a lot of money 💰 Thanks a lot 🙏 this is Blessing.

[@brianmiller6340]

One of the handiest things about working on the AC on landfill equipment is that the system is usually already evacuated for you when you start.

[@DIYDaveOK]

I'm a little late to this one, but it's still always a treat to see an SMA video notice!! Thanks as always, Eric!

[@starcarrier1874]

That was one excellently done instructional video. Eric you’ve honed your craft. If you ever retire you really should consider heading the state’s technical college board on auto repair. Seriously! I see it now, an auto repair remake of “The Paper Chase”. Only, who would play you as the professor??

[@fredwalker839]

There would only be a “select few “ !

[@johnbailey7707]

I agree about letting a pro charge the system. I have gauges and a vacuum pump but no scale for refrigerant - just cans. I've converted a couple of R12 cars successfully, but I really messed up my truck and managed to overfill 2X based on what the shop said. Blows cold on 100+ TX days now.

[@jamest2101]

My Dude... Whats going on my man :-)... In your earlier clips were like being taken along with a real mechanic on a repair job. Lately you have been taking us way out in to the thick weeds with explanations for stuff.. Almost like you are teaching us in a class... For example with this clip you were actually showing us the bolts and plastic connectors, not just where they come from but even down to the point of showing us what they look like.... You know that when we start pulling plastic and their connecting deceives that we are going to be yanking and banking and just trying not to break any of the big pieces. Dude, the big picture was great, because you gave us the scoop on getting the job done... now we are taking notes :-)

[@CraigSmith568]

The South Main Auto license plate is a nice touch.

[@charlesgould8436]

You lucky it runs. I had head on 35mph both ways on ice on a hill, airbags are phenomenal!

[@charlesgould8436]

I had a 1988 s10 2.8 throttle body bolt repaired at a machine shop... and they used a wood screw type set. It cranked the tq like crazy by hand:)

[@charleshauser4537]

Wow!! Reminds me of pulling the radiator in a 2001 Grand Cherokee with the 4.7. Good job Mr. O!!

[@chriscaissie9580]

Just wrapped up a condenser swap in a 2014 RAV4 - You video was a great help nice job and Thank you!!

[@kevinkoepke8311]

This is why I like my '95 GMC Sierra. 4 bolts, 4 light connectors and there it is.

[@aktrapper6126]

Eric your a saint! all that plastic and I've never seen you cuss ........ your an inspiration.

[@carlkraus6034]

I had good luck with a rebuild kit from UAC. Compressor with clutch, condenser, dryer, orifice tube, seals o rings and oil $265.00. I did the water pump, heater core, and radiator at the same time. All working well, a year and half later.

[@BigDaddy_MRI]

Mr. O, excellent video. My daughter has a RAV4. If I have to replace the condenser, I have this. Fantastic!! Love to meet you sometime, let you yell at me for bothering you while you’re working, shake your hand and quietly go away. That would be nice. Sorta. But, probably better to just watch the videos. Thanks for taking the time to make them!! You are the best.

[@johnhpalmer6098]

Yep, amazed that a small car like the former Fiat 500 was built like it was. Did an extensive research on them when they were being introduced in 2012 and they had a beefier frame for the US versions and were designed to remain intact in the cabins so the doors can still open to some degree at least in a head on collision, and if I recall, they did fairly well according to NTSA. Back in the 90's, I drove a 1983 Hondoo Civic, the venerable "big" 1500cc DX grade hatchback that weighed all of 1500Lbs and had all of 68HP and when in a collision, they likely folded like a tin can in a serious accident and I drove the snot out of mine back in the day. In 2012, bought a replacement vehicle, a 2003 Mazda Protege 5 wagon with 110K and change on the clock and a decade later, it's still on the road, AC still blowing reasonably cold, but could use a little TLC now and it has 195K miles on it and has been a super trooper this whole time, outside of 2 big repairs, the timing belt replacement that took me a while to figure out why it was running like poo (timing at the exhaust valves was a tad off), but once that was solved, it ran great, then the right front wheel bearing was going bad, and ended up having both replaced, and had already had one done in 2013, along with new tires that year. I have 195K and change on this car and it's still running mighty fine. As you pointed out, it used to be that you'd barely get over 100K miles before the car would begin to fall apart, and that was by the late 60's and beyond. Before that, often a car was used up (rust notwithstanding) by 80K.

[@moconnell663]

If you ever watch Ron Pratt's channel he had an emergency tow off the highway that had been an enormous collision, literally the engine from this SUV was a hundred feet away and bits and pieces were scattered everywhere. The car did its job perfectly and dissipated the energy of the crash so well that the driver walked away without serious injury.

[@twoschful]

The SMA license plate is a nice touch.

[@JBlake-moon-shdo]

I absolutely love, the keep track of your giggle bits. Also the south main plate. Great video again Eric

[@LeewardStudios]

Last Toyota AC work I did was on a 91 Camry. Needed reman Denso compressor and dryer. Converted to 134 and new schrader valves. 3 years in and still blowing cold!

[@tommyg878]

Good Lord, a bicycle could bump that car and knock the engine out .!! With my oilfield background I’d ruin everything. Hats off to you on your patience while working on that.

[@danielfarmer4311]

By far the best auto channel on the Tube. Thanks for letting us in on the happenings at your shop. Happy 4th 🇺🇸😎

[@donaldmiller3064]

Great instructional video. Like the way you separate your small parts and bolts, keeps it mor simple when going back together. FYI, your still the best mechanic on KZbin.

[@markkinsey3918]

I remember in the old days on my 66 Riviera 4 bolts for the radiator then you were at the condenser and done. Today you have to disassemble the front of the car just to get to it.

[@aaronrichardson6473]

Very nice that you covered the license.

[@SouthMainAuto]

I wish everybody that drove down the road would cover theirs :( I gives me so much temptation to look up their VIN haha

[@jhaedtler]

I have a 2015 Highlander that I bought used with 104000 miles. love that car. then I wanted to change the headlight lens. I had to take the whole front cover off! I think I did well It only Tok me 5 hours to change the lens's.

[@geologic740]

Like you, I'm amazed at how long most components remain functional considering all the environmental variations around the world. I like the custom license plate you hung up there. Keep those videos coming.

[@Shadeyfizz9]

I'm getting this done at a dealship today the fact you can do it 30 min but they told me 4 hours is insane

[@floodway2955]

Nice touch with the front license plate.

[@raymondreiff8170]

I had some work done at Stealership for deer damage about a year ago and I can Safely say you're workmanship is 💯% Better why? Because you didn't miss a freon port cap or two bolts one under each headlight. Great video at work like all you're content 👍🇺🇸👍.

[@davidmiller9485]

The engineering in automobiles in general impress me. Think about how the small ends of the rods rotate around the crank. It only ever touches when you first start the car. The rest of the time it floats on a "pillow" of oil. It's rather incredible engineering.

[@moconnell663]

It gets even cooler when you look at the drivetrain of a hybrid like a Prius. There's a secondary electric oil pump that pre-charges the system so it has full oil pressure before it even starts cranking.

[@josephsheridan4589]

Well done,by a guy that knows what he is doing .

[@tomlewis3658]

This was interesting to see. I was thinking if this was the other end of the A/C cycle - the evaporator - that was leaking, that could be a really involved job, with lot of interior pieces removed. I hope the owner of this 2016 model gets a bunch of good cool years out of this repair, before something like the evaporator leaks.

[@jtjones4727]

Condensers are always going to fail before the evaporator will. Just because they are at the frontmost part of the vehicle. They get hit by bugs and pebbles and other road debris. Not to mention all the passive heat from the radiator right next to it, plus rain, sleet, snow, etc.. I'm surprised they don't fail more often.

[@michaelschmidt5179]

Toyota’s have really good AC systems, but all cars need repairs. My 98 4Runner still blows cold, had to top off the r134 after a serpentine belt change. Took half a can.

[@GTCGreg]

@@jtjones4727 I owned a total of 5 Jeep Cherokees (not Grand) over the years. Every one of them developed a leak in the evaporator after about 10 years. Never had a condenser leak.

[@fredwalker839]

@@jtjones4727 Only Bikers know How Big bugs really are ! LOL

[@fredwalker839]

@@GTCGreg I do tons of A/C ! The Chrysler Evap leaks were caused by the sublet builder stamps all Eva’s ! The same supplier for many years ! It was proven to be the problem !! The real problem was,,,, all if not most,, leaked “AFTER “ warranty ! “ And NOT Chinese ! LOL but true !

[@jonbingham3595]

THANK YOU BROTHER. THAT WAS AN EXCELLENT TUTORIAL! LOVE YOU YOUR CHANNEL AND YOU MY BROTHER. I HOPE YOU DON'T STOP. 🙂💖

[@kdeltatube]

I like to just replace all the O-rings cause it's a pain to get to if they end up not sealing. Not a big cost to replace but a big pain if leak. Hi Mrs O!

[@charlesgould8436]

I was impressed with 09 matrix 1.8 awd front diff whine highway mileage!!! Using cruise control!!!

[@neilmurphy845]

I'm glad my 05 Corolla still has working AC with 150k miles on it

[@mackboss2189]

Everytime your door dinger goes off, I'm reminded of the gas station bell cords of my youth.