This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the AC pressure sensor on the 2016-2021 Honda Civic 1.5L Turbo, located on the high-pressure AC line near the condenser.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• AC pressure sensor × 1 — Use OEM specification
• O-ring for AC fitting × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• PAG oil for AC system — 0.05 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure the AC system has been properly evacuated by a certified technician with appropriate recovery equipment
2. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
3. Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes to allow airbag system to discharge
4. Verify you have the correct replacement AC pressure sensor for your specific model year

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the AC pressure sensor
   Open the hood and locate the AC pressure sensor on the high-pressure AC line near the condenser on the passenger side of the engine bay. It is a small sensor with an electrical connector and threading into the AC line. You may need to remove the engine cover if equipped by pulling upward on the cover to release the mounting grommets.
2. 2

   Disconnect the electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the electrical connector and carefully pull it straight off the AC pressure sensor. Inspect the connector for corrosion or damage. If corrosion is present, clean with contact cleaner and allow to dry.
3. 3

   Remove the AC pressure sensor
   Using a 10mm socket or appropriate wrench, unscrew the AC pressure sensor counterclockwise from the AC line fitting. Remove the sensor completely and inspect the threads and sealing surface on the AC line for damage or debris. Clean the threads with a wire brush if necessary.
   ⚠If you encounter resistance or refrigerant escapes during removal, stop immediately and have the system properly evacuated.
4. 4

   Prepare the new sensor
   Inspect the new AC pressure sensor and verify it has a fresh O-ring installed. If the O-ring is separate, install it onto the sensor threads. Apply a small amount of PAG oil (approximately 2-3 drops) to the O-ring to ensure proper sealing and prevent damage during installation.
5. 5

   Install the new AC pressure sensor
   Thread the new AC pressure sensor into the AC line fitting by hand, turning clockwise until it seats. Ensure it threads smoothly without cross-threading. Once hand-tight, use a torque wrench and 10mm socket to tighten the sensor to the AC line fitting torque specification.
   Torque spec

   AC Line Fittings20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Reconnect the electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector firmly onto the new AC pressure sensor until you hear or feel the locking tab engage. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked in place.
7. 7

   Reinstall removed components
   If you removed the engine cover, reinstall it by aligning the mounting grommets and pressing down firmly until it seats. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.

Reassembly

1. Double-check that the electrical connector is fully seated and locked onto the sensor
2. Verify all tools and parts have been removed from the engine bay
3. Ensure the engine cover (if equipped) is properly secured

Verification

• Have the AC system professionally evacuated and recharged by a certified technician with appropriate equipment
• After recharge, start the vehicle and turn on the AC system to maximum cooling
• Verify the AC compressor engages and cold air is produced
• Use a diagnostic scanner to check for AC pressure sensor codes - there should be no DTCs related to the AC pressure sensor
• Inspect the sensor area for refrigerant leaks using a leak detector or soap solution while the system is running
• Confirm AC pressure readings are within normal range (typically 200-250 PSI on high side at idle with AC on)

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