Kia Soul 27 kWh Getting AC Service at Elbilmek
Why It Matters
Effective AC maintenance prevents expensive compressor failures, safeguards the environment, and preserves resale value for electric‑vehicle owners.
Key Takeaways
- •Leak detection reveals 615 g refrigerant vs 900 g spec.
- •Replacing corroded O‑rings stops further AC gas loss.
- •Proper certification required for safe AC servicing and environmental compliance.
- •Refilling with R‑1234yf gas costs ~4,000 NOK for 900 g.
- •Restored cooling drops cabin temperature from 10 °C to 4 °C.
Summary
The video documents a hands‑on service session for a Kia Soul 27 kWh electric hatchback, focusing on diagnosing and repairing a failing air‑conditioning system before the owner sells the car. Technicians first evacuate the refrigerant, measure the remaining charge, and identify a significant leak that left only 615 g of gas versus the 900 g specification.
Using a leak‑detection tracer and visual inspection, they locate corroded O‑rings on both the low‑ and high‑pressure lines. After replacing the O‑rings with a special oil‑treated seal, the system is pressurized with test gas, confirming that pressure remains stable and the leak is sealed. The team then refills the system with R‑1234yf, a low‑global‑warming‑potential refrigerant, noting the cost of roughly 4,000 NOK for a full charge.
The presenter emphasizes that only certified technicians should handle refrigerant due to safety and environmental regulations, citing that typical EV AC systems lose about 10 % of charge per year. He contrasts the Kia’s issue with a BMW i3 that suffered a compressor failure after running dry, underscoring the importance of timely maintenance.
With the repair complete, cabin temperature drops from around 10 °C to 4 °C, restoring comfortable cooling and improving the vehicle’s resale appeal. The segment highlights how proper AC upkeep can prevent costly compressor replacements and preserve an EV’s value in the secondary market.
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