This procedure covers the replacement of the AC high pressure switch on a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine, including refrigerant recovery, switch replacement, and system recharge.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• AC high pressure switch × 1 — Use OEM specification
• AC line O-rings × 2 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• R-134a refrigerant
• PAG 46 compressor oil

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cool to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Verify AC system has not been recently operated to ensure low pressure
5. Locate AC high pressure switch on the high pressure line near the condenser on driver side

Procedure

1. 1

   Recover refrigerant from AC system
   Connect AC recovery machine to the service ports (low and high side). Follow machine instructions to completely recover all refrigerant from the system. Record the amount of refrigerant and oil recovered for recharge reference. Wait for system to reach atmospheric pressure before proceeding.
   ⚠️System must be fully evacuated before disconnecting any lines. Residual pressure can cause injury.
2. 2

   Disconnect high pressure switch electrical connector
   Locate the high pressure switch on the AC high pressure line near the condenser. Press the locking tab on the electrical connector and pull straight out to disconnect. Note the orientation of the connector for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Remove high pressure switch
   Using a 12mm wrench, carefully unscrew the high pressure switch from the AC line fitting. Turn counterclockwise to remove. Have shop towels ready to catch any residual oil that may drip from the line. Inspect the O-ring seat in the line for damage or debris.
4. 4

   Prepare new switch and O-rings
   Remove the new high pressure switch from packaging. Install new O-rings onto the switch threads. Apply a thin coating of fresh PAG 46 compressor oil to the O-rings using your fingers or an applicator. Do not over-oil as excess can contaminate the system.
   ℹ️Only use PAG oil compatible with R-134a systems. Do not use mineral oil or other lubricants.
5. 5

   Install new high pressure switch
   Thread the new high pressure switch into the AC line fitting by hand, turning clockwise. Ensure it threads smoothly without cross-threading. Once hand-tight, use a 12mm wrench and torque wrench to tighten to specification.
   ⚠Do not over-tighten. Excessive torque can damage the fitting or crack the switch body.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Align the electrical connector with the pins on the new high pressure switch. Push firmly until you hear and feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely latched.
7. 7

   Evacuate AC system
   Connect the AC machine to service ports. Run a vacuum cycle for minimum 30 minutes to remove all air and moisture from the system. System should hold vacuum without loss for at least 10 minutes after pump stops. If vacuum drops, there is a leak that must be found and corrected.
   ⚠Insufficient evacuation will cause poor AC performance and potential compressor damage due to moisture in the system.
8. 8

   Recharge AC system
   Using the AC machine, recharge the system with the correct amount of R-134a refrigerant as recorded during recovery (typically 18-20 oz for this system). Add the appropriate amount of PAG 46 oil if significant oil was lost during the repair (typically 1-2 oz if only switch was replaced). Follow machine prompts for proper charging procedure.

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connections are secure and properly latched
2. Inspect work area for tools or parts left behind
3. Close hood after verification is complete

Verification

• Start engine and turn AC to maximum cold with fan on high
• Allow system to run for 5 minutes and verify cold air from vents
• Check for unusual noises from compressor or AC components
• Use leak detector or soapy water to check for leaks at the high pressure switch connection
• Monitor AC performance over next few days to ensure proper operation
• Verify high pressure switch connector is secure and dry (no oil leakage)
• Confirm AC system pressures are within specification using manifold gauges if available (high side: 200-250 psi at 95°F ambient)

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