Automotive Air Conditioning Course

Lesson 1 • Refrigerants: Types and Properties

Introduces refrigerant chemistry, global warming potential, and phase-change behavior. Prepares technicians to handle refrigerants safely and legally.

Lesson 2 • Core AC System Components

Identifies every major component in a standard automotive AC system and its role. Builds the vocabulary needed for diagnosis and repair work.

Lesson 3 • History and Purpose of Vehicle AC

Traces the evolution of automotive climate control from early designs to modern systems. Provides context for why AC is a critical vehicle comfort and safety system.

Lesson 4 • The Refrigeration Cycle Explained

Covers the four-stage vapor-compression cycle that drives all automotive AC systems. Links thermodynamic principles to physical component behavior.

Lesson 1 • Vacuum Pumps and System Evacuation

Explains how vacuum pumps remove moisture and non-condensables before refrigerant charge. Proper evacuation is essential for system longevity and performance.

Lesson 2 • Personal Protective Equipment for AC Work

Details PPE requirements specific to refrigerant exposure and high-pressure systems. Establishes safety habits before any hands-on equipment use.

Lesson 3 • Recovery, Recycling, and Recharge Equipment

Covers recovery machines, recycling stations, and recharge units required for compliant service. Proper equipment use prevents refrigerant release and contamination.

Lesson 4 • Leak Detection Tools

Introduces electronic detectors, UV dye kits, and nitrogen pressure testing for locating leaks. Accurate leak detection prevents repeat failures and refrigerant loss.

Lesson 1 • Electric Compressors in Hybrid and EV Systems

Addresses high-voltage electric compressors used in hybrid and battery-electric vehicles. Technicians learn isolation procedures and unique service requirements.

Lesson 2 • Compressor Clutch and Drive Components

Covers electromagnetic clutch assemblies, pulleys, and belt drive systems that engage the compressor. Clutch failures are among the most common AC complaints.

Lesson 3 • Compressor Lubrication and Oil Management

Explains how compressor oil circulates through the system and why oil balance matters. Incorrect oil quantity causes premature compressor failure.

Lesson 4 • Compressor Types and Internal Design

Compares piston, scroll, rotary vane, and variable-displacement compressor designs. Understanding internal geometry explains performance differences and failure modes.

Lesson 1 • Auxiliary and Rear AC Heat Exchangers

Addresses rear-seat and auxiliary evaporator systems found in vans, SUVs, and trucks. Students trace refrigerant flow through multi-zone systems.

Lesson 2 • Evaporator Freeze-Up and Leak Diagnosis

Identifies causes of evaporator icing, odor, and refrigerant leaks inside the cabin. Freeze-up diagnosis requires understanding pressure and temperature controls.

Lesson 3 • Evaporator Construction and Location

Describes evaporator core designs, typical dash-mounted locations, and access challenges. Evaporator service is labor-intensive and requires careful planning.

Lesson 4 • Condenser Failure Modes and Diagnosis

Covers leaks, blockages, and fin damage as primary condenser failure causes. Accurate diagnosis prevents unnecessary component replacement.

Lesson 1 • Pressure Relief and Check Valves

Addresses high-pressure relief valves and check valves that protect system integrity. Students identify valve failures that cause refrigerant loss or system damage.

Lesson 2 • Thermostatic Expansion Valves

Explains TXV sensing bulb operation, superheat control, and common failure symptoms. TXV faults mimic compressor and refrigerant charge problems.

Lesson 3 • Electronic Expansion Valves

Covers stepper-motor-driven EXVs used in automatic climate control systems. EXV diagnosis requires scan tool data and electronic testing skills.

Lesson 4 • Receiver-Drier Function and Service

Explains desiccant moisture absorption, sight glass interpretation, and replacement intervals. A saturated desiccant causes acid formation and system damage.

Lesson 1 • Scan Tool Diagnostics for AC Systems

Applies scan tool live data, freeze frame, and active tests to AC fault diagnosis. Scan tool proficiency dramatically reduces diagnostic time on modern vehicles.

Lesson 2 • AC Electrical Circuit Fundamentals

Reviews voltage, current, resistance, and circuit protection as applied to AC systems. Electrical competence is prerequisite to diagnosing modern climate control faults.

Lesson 3 • Climate Control Modules and Actuators

Addresses HVAC control modules, blend door actuators, and mode door motors. Module faults and actuator failures cause incorrect airflow and temperature complaints.

Lesson 4 • Pressure Switches and Sensors

Explains low-pressure, high-pressure, and dual-function pressure switches and transducers. Faulty pressure sensors generate false fault codes and incorrect compressor cycling.

Lesson 1 • Refrigerant Recovery Procedures

Executes complete refrigerant recovery using certified equipment before any system opening. Proper recovery prevents atmospheric release and preserves refrigerant for reuse.

Lesson 2 • Refrigerant Recharge by Weight

Charges the system with the exact manufacturer-specified refrigerant weight using a calibrated scale. Weight-based charging is the most accurate method for all system types.

Lesson 3 • Post-Service Inspection and Documentation

Conducts leak checks, performance tests, and completes service records after every recharge. Thorough documentation protects the shop and supports warranty claims.

Lesson 4 • Regulatory Requirements for Refrigerant Handling

Covers technician certification requirements, venting prohibitions, and record-keeping obligations. Compliance protects the technician, the shop, and the environment.

Lesson 1 • Pressure Chart Interpretation

Teaches use of pressure-temperature charts to evaluate system charge and component function. Correct chart use requires knowing ambient temperature and system type.

Lesson 2 • Contamination and Moisture Diagnosis

Identifies refrigerant contamination, moisture ingress, and non-condensable gas presence. Contaminated systems require full recovery and decontamination before recharge.

Lesson 3 • Undercharge and Overcharge Diagnosis

Distinguishes refrigerant undercharge from overcharge using pressure and temperature data. Both conditions reduce cooling performance and can damage components.

Lesson 4 • Performance Testing and Verification

Conducts outlet temperature, delta-T, and airflow tests to confirm system performance after repair. Verification testing ensures the repair meets manufacturer specifications.