Dodge Durango Condensers and Evaporators
As the calendar turns toward the summer months and the days get hotter and longer, keeping your Dodge Durangos air conditioning system working becomes more and more important. Maintaining the Dodge Durango condensers and evaporators is vital to the functioning of your cabin cooling system. Understanding how these parts work and when a replacement might be necessary can keep your Dodge Durango running cool on even the hottest days.
Where is the condenser located on a Dodge Durango?The condenser on your Durango is located near the front of the engine block and is close to the radiator. It is similar in appearance to the radiator in that is has accordion-like fins that it uses to harness the air flow required to condense the hot freon gas that moves at high pressure as it is pumped through this part. The liquid freon is then moved into the evaporator.
Can the Dodge Durango condenser be cleaned?Given the nature and shape of the unit, as well as its location at the front end of the engine block, debris, dust, and grime can accumulate on its surface. When you notice a decrease in cabin air flow rate, or if the air conditioning system is engaged but the vents are blowing warm air instead of cool, one of the first steps you can take is to remove and clean the condenser. As the debris builds up, it can impact the air flow required to condense the vaporous freon and thus impede the entire cooling cycle process.
Where is the evaporator core on a Durango?As with most vehicles, the evaporator core is located behind the dashboard. The evaporator core is the part responsible for creating the cool air that is blown through the vents. As the freon moves from the condenser to the evaporator, it is at a lower pressure. It moves through the evaporator tubes and changes back to a gaseous state. As it changes from liquid back to gas, it gives off cold air that is then channeled to the vents in the dashboard.
Because the location of the evaporator core is behind the dash, you must fully remove the dashboard of your Dodge to actively inspect, remove, or replace the evaporator core. This job requires the time, knowledge, space, and tools for successful completion, and you might need to hire a professional auto mechanic to do the work.
Can a Dodge condenser be repaired?The main issue that can arise with these parts is the tubes through which the freon gas is pushed can become clogged and gummed up over time. Flushing may help to improve performance, but if it does not, the condenser will need to be replaced.