I have 2002 kJ verada GTV that has a refrigerant leak which is evident with the testing unit coming out through all the internal vents. The auto shop said it was probably a leak around the evaporator. They said it could be a very big job to fix and go to a mitsubishi dealer

System is a climate control unit.


How hard is the evaporator to get to and has anyone been through the experience of having to get a repair like this?

Does the dash have to come out or can it be accessed via glovebox etc etc

Any info would be appreciated..

Eddy

Check the overflow pipe. It goes from the air con unit to the engine bay. On some vehicles they tend to clog up with leaves and dirt. It may be blocked. Check this out first if it hasnt been looked at first may save you a few dollars.

Regards

ok, will do, although im not sure this would fix a refridgerant leak.

The pipe I think your referring to is the drain for the moisture removed in the cooling process. The refrigerant pipe work is a sealed system and does not have an over flow pipe, moisture and refrigerant systems do not mix.
I would be surprised if it was the evaporator but not impossible. I would think it may be a hose or connection under the dash near the firewall entry or at the evaporator connections.
I have never had the need to get to the evaporator so not sure how hard it is to do.
Was the gas detected coming out of the vents done with an electronic meter that beeped?
It does not narrow down the site of the leak though except that its inside the cabin as the return air is taken from the passenger foot well.
BTW the drain does need to be checked as you should always see water coming out of it on humid days if not check as you will end up with a leak in the car if it is blocked and someone could get a foot full of very cold water.
Hope this helps