[B]DIY - Replace A/C Line to back seat console[/B]

[Charlemagne2k3]

Good Morning,

Just got off the phone with the dealership, My 2004 Pilot EX-L needs a new A/C line - apparantly the one running to the back console. They want $650+ to replace it which seems ridiculous.

Is this a DIY job? I am having a hard time locating resources for replacing the line - perhaps if the line is in a hard to get to place it could be that much but its hard to know.

I looked at replacement lines at auto parts stores and they are ~$50 each meaning its mostly labor. I would think $650 would be for a compressor too or something!!

I am pretty handy - from brakes to plugs n belts to alternators im good - but I've never had to mess with the A/C unit.

If anyone can either assist me or point me in the right direction for replacing this - I would appreciate it! Google and forum search did not work well for me!

[megatron]

Originally Posted by Charlemagne2k3

Good Morning,

Just got off the phone with the dealership, My 2004 Pilot EX-L needs a new A/C line - apparantly the one running to the back console. They want $650+ to replace it which seems ridiculous.

Is this a DIY job? I am having a hard time locating resources for replacing the line - perhaps if the line is in a hard to get to place it could be that much but its hard to know.

I looked at replacement lines at auto parts stores and they are ~$50 each meaning its mostly labor. I would think $650 would be for a compressor too or something!!

I am pretty handy - from brakes to plugs n belts to alternators im good - but I've never had to mess with the A/C unit.

If anyone can either assist me or point me in the right direction for replacing this - I would appreciate it! Google and forum search did not work well for me!

I'm sure the high cost is due to having to open up the A/C system, which has to be evacuated to capture the old refrigerant, the line repaired, then reevacuated to check for leaks, then the system has to be recharged and re-oiled. $650 is still a rip off, but it seems right in terms of what dealers charge.

[pntballgunz]

It is fairly easy. You should also replace the receiver/dryer because the lines are open and subject to contaminants and moisture. This is the part that is the filter for the A/C system and because the lines are open, it will suck up moisture and be inefficient if not replaced.

[rocky]

This is a very unusual failure. Have they shown you where?

You can look the pipes up on Majestic Honda's site. Majestic Honda - Parts & Accessories | Honda Replacement Parts Warwick | Discount Auto Parts in Warwick

Haven't looked but I would assume that these pipes run internally-which means a good chunk of the dash and center console have to come out.

Labor is the tough part. If your front is working that may suffice for now while you shop the job elsewhere

[hkellogg]

diagram of rear pipe and assy looks like a doozy since its a complete system on its on and the parts listing seems crazy like 20 parts to replace

[rocky]

Get a detailed description and estimate of all the parts involved and Labor.

[krazykarguy]

All of the lines to the rear evaporator are under the car.