How to Recharge an Air Conditioner in a 2011 Chevy Traverse

If your 2011 Chevy Traverse AC system is overpressurized, you may need to get it recharged. Overcharging your AC system can negatively affect cooling performance, damage the compressor, or even cause a leak. To prevent this from happening, make sure you follow the recommended procedure to recharge your air conditioner.

First, check the refrigerant level. Low refrigerant can be caused by a few different issues, including leaks, cracked evaporator coils, and old ventilation fans. Also, it could be a sign of mold buildup. You can test your AC system by injecting fluorescent dye into the system. It will shine under UV light if any component is leaking. Once you determine the source of the leak, you can recharge the system with a do-it-yourself A/C recharge kit.

Next, locate the low-pressure service port, which is typically located under the hood. If you do not know which port is low-pressure, refer to your owner’s manual. You will also need to adjust your air conditioning system to the coldest setting and the highest fan speed. Once you have done this, you need to remove the cap from the low-pressure service port (L). Connect the two unlabeled ports of the AC hose to the recharge kit, which will fit into the low-pressure port.

The low-pressure port and hose connector should be accessible under the hood. Once you’ve found them, connect a gauge to the port and check the pressure. A zero-pressure reading means your system is completely empty. If you do not have the proper tools to check the pressure level, this DIY repair will not work. Once you’ve found the low-pressure port, you can start adding refrigerant. Remember to add the right amount, as too much will reduce cooling.