This procedure covers the replacement of the AC low pressure switch on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine, including refrigerant recovery, switch replacement, and system recharge.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• AC low pressure switch × 1 — Use OEM specification
• AC system O-rings × 2 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• R-134a refrigerant
• PAG 46 oil

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn off engine and allow to cool completely
3. Connect AC recovery machine and fully recover all refrigerant from the system following machine instructions
4. Record the amount of refrigerant and oil recovered for proper recharge
5. Locate the AC low pressure switch on the suction line near the accumulator/dryer on passenger side of engine bay

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Press the tab on the electrical connector attached to the low pressure switch and pull straight away from the switch to disconnect. Do not pull on the wiring harness itself.
2. 2

   Remove low pressure switch
   Using a flare nut wrench or appropriate wrench, turn the low pressure switch counterclockwise to unthread it from the AC line port. Remove the switch completely and immediately cap or cover the open port to prevent moisture and debris entry.
3. 3

   Inspect and clean port
   Inspect the threads and sealing surface on the AC line port for damage, corrosion, or debris. Clean threads with a lint-free cloth if needed. Check the old switch O-ring for signs of damage or deterioration.
4. 4

   Prepare new switch
   Install new O-rings on the new AC low pressure switch. Apply a thin coating of fresh PAG 46 oil to the O-rings to ensure proper sealing and prevent damage during installation. Add approximately 1-2 drops of PAG oil into the open port to replace oil lost during component removal.
5. 5

   Install new switch
   Thread the new low pressure switch into the AC line port by hand, turning clockwise until finger-tight. Ensure the switch threads in smoothly without cross-threading. Tighten to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector onto the new low pressure switch until it clicks securely into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
7. 7

   Evacuate AC system
   Connect vacuum pump to the AC system via manifold gauges. Run vacuum pump for minimum 30-45 minutes to remove all moisture and air from the system. System should hold vacuum at 29+ inches Hg for at least 10 minutes after pump is shut off to confirm no leaks.
8. 8

   Recharge AC system
   Recharge the AC system with the correct amount of R-134a refrigerant as recorded during recovery, or per vehicle specification (typically 17-19 oz for this system). Add proper amount of PAG 46 oil if needed to compensate for oil lost during repair. Follow AC machine or manifold gauge instructions for proper charging procedure.

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connections are secure and properly seated
2. Ensure no tools or materials are left in the engine bay
3. Double-check that all AC line connections are tight and properly torqued

Verification

• Start engine and turn AC to maximum cooling with blower on high
• Verify compressor clutch engages when AC is turned on (listen for click and observe clutch engagement)
• Check that cold air is blowing from vents within 1-2 minutes
• Use AC manifold gauges to verify proper system pressures: low side should read 25-40 PSI and high side 200-250 PSI at idle with ambient temperature around 75-80°F
• Inspect the low pressure switch connection and surrounding AC lines for any signs of refrigerant oil leakage
• Use electronic leak detector around the new switch installation point to confirm no refrigerant leaks
• Verify AC system cycles normally and low pressure switch functions by monitoring compressor engagement under various conditions

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