Where do you add air conditioning fluid - 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt

1. Do NOT start the engine until the system is fully bled, doing so may cause damage to the power steering components. Pump internals are metal to metal so any air in the system can cause metal to metal contact and resulting damage.
2. Raise the front wheels off the ground
3. Turn the steering wheel fully to the RIGHT
4. Fill the reservoir to the "full cold" level & leave the cap off. Use only XADO CHF or Honda PSF-S fluid. Do NOT use automatic transmission fluid as transmission fluid does not contain the same friction inhibitors/additives and tends to breakdown and overheat. The use of transmission fluid will VOID the warranty
5. With an assistant checking the fluid level, turn the steering wheel slowly and smoothly lock to lock until the level drops in the reservoir. If the fluid level does not drop no fluid has moved through the system, this indicates an air bubble in the reservoir or pump. Until this bubble passes no fluid will circulate through the system. ? On systems with coolers you may need to cycle in excess of 40 times ? Do NOT turn the steering wheel fast as this will cause the fluid to overflow the reservoir, trapped air may cause the fluid to overflow. Thoroughly clean any spilled fluid so you can check later for any leaks
6. Check the fluid constantly to ensure proper level and that no bubbles exist. ? If you see any signs of bubbles recheck all hose connections then repeat the steps above. ? The fluid level should be steady
7. Disable the engine from starting ? Crank the engine several revolutions, if the fluid level drops there is compressed air trapped in the system, repeat the above steps until the fluid level remains stable. ? If the fluid foams while cranking wait at least 10 minutes or more until dispersed air has time to accumulate and purge through the reservoir.
8. Continue to repeat the steps above until the fluid level remains constant and no air bubbles are visible.
9. Now start the engine and check that the fluid remains at level and stable
10. Reinstall the reservoir cap
11. Return wheels to centre and lower wheels to the ground
12. Run the engine for two minutes and turn steering wheel in both directions
13. Do NOT hold the steering wheel against the stops
14. Verify the following conditions ? The steering is smooth ? Noiseless operation ? Proper fluid level ? No leaks ? Proper fluid condition ? No bubbles, foaming or fluid discolouration
15. If all of the above conditions are satisfied the bleeding procedure is complete
16. If any problem exists then turn off the engine and see special conditions below Special Conditions If you experience any of the conditions listed below then there is still air in the system. ? Foam or bubbles in the fluid ? Power steering fluid should not rise in the reservoir when the engine is turned off, if this occurs there is air trapped in the system ? Be aware of any periodic bubbles that could indicate a loose connection, leaky o-ring or a bad flare seat in either the pressure or return hose ? Discoloured fluid (milky, opaque or light tan colour) If you have any questions regarding this procedure please contact us before you install the replacement power steering pump that you have purchased from us, we will be happy to help you.

What you are wanting to add is R134a Freon. The port that you are talking about looks like the same connection that is on your tires. It is called a Schrader valve. They have a cap on them like a tire valve stem. They are located on the air conditioner lines that lead to and from the compressor to the cabin. They are different sizes and if you are not familiar with them, find someone that is because you can get hurt or damage your a/c if you make a mistake.

Many A/C compressors rely on a computer generated reset of data to perform properly. Check the gauges, while attempting to energize the system to see if the fluids are up to the proper levels. Too much pressure can also be caused by a blockage in the lines and thus leaking from the valves. When filling with Freon, it is important to do a full Vacuum of the system to prevent air locks, and false readings on the gauges.

Air conditioning will need to be taken into a shop to be "re-gassed" going by the fact you do not have the tech mind (asking how to do it) * no offense intended* brings me to say just go into the mechanic. There are laws relating to the gases and fluids so save yourself the risk and work, it is not an expensive job.

Jack the car up and turn wheels side to side without completely locking to one side, after couple times, see if you need to add fluid, do it while running, should get air out and be fine.

Hi and welcome to FixYa. I am Kelly.

Here are your service intervals:

NOTE Besides Oil changes there are inspection intervals I & II

http://www.savagebmw.com/Service/content_service_Intervals.htm

Inspection interval I

BMW Inspection I (return to top) Undercarriage

• Change engine oil and filter while engine is at normal operation temperature.
• Check transmission for leaks.
• Check rear axle for leaks.
• Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
• Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
• Check power steering system for leaks.
• Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
• Examine brake disc surfaces.
• Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
• Grease wheel center hubs.
• Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
• Check front control arm bushing for wear.
• Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
• Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
• Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
• Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.

Engine Compartment

• Read out diagnostic system
• Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
• Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
• Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
• Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
• Check air conditioner for operation.
• Reset Service Indicator.

Body/Electrical Equipment

• Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
• Perform batter load test.
• Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
• Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
• Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
• Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
• Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
• Check condition and function of safety belts.
• Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
• Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
• Check central locking/double lock.
• Replace microfilter or Acc. Cabin Filter.
• Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
• Check rear view mirrors
• Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.

Final Inspection

• Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission

Inspection interval II
BMW Inspection II (return to top) Undercarriage

• Change engine oil and filter while engine is at normal operation temperature.
• Check transmission for leaks.
• Check rear axle for leaks.
• Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
• Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
• Check power steering system for leaks.
• Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
• Examine brake disc surfaces.
• Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
• Grease wheel center hubs.
• Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
• Check front control arm bushing for wear.
• Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
• Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
• Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
• Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.
• Check thickness of parking brake linings.
• Half-shafts; check for leaks at flexible boots.
• Inspect entire body according to terms of rust prevention limited warranty.

Engine Compartment

• Read out diagnostic system
• Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
• Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
• Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
• Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
• Check air conditioner for operation.
• Reset Service Indicator.
• Replace spark plugs (as applicable by year and model)
• Replace intake air cleaner element.

Body/Electrical Equipment

• Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
• Perform batter load test.
• Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
• Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
• Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
• Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
• Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
• Check condition and function of safety belts.
• Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
• Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
• Check central locking/double lock.
• Replace microfilter or Acc Cabin Filter.
• Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
• Check rear view mirrors
• Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.

Final Inspection

• Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission

Service indicator lights if installed:

http://www.savagebmw.com/Service/content_service_IntervalsLED.htm

That should just about cover the works other than failures.

Thanks for using FixYa!

Kelly

Maintenance: Normal Service 10000 MI or 16000 KM
Check
Brake Pad.............................................................................................................................................................................................. ____
Diagnose/Test
Data Link Connector............................................................................................................................................................................. ____
Check Diagnostic Trouble Code Memory. Purge if necessary, where applicable.
Vehicle.................................................................................................................................................................................................. ____
Road Test - Check braking, kick-down, steering, electrical, heating & ventilation systems, air
conditioning, and power accessories.
Inspect
Battery................................................................................................................................................................................................... ____
Check electrolyte level. Add if necessary.
Brakes and Traction Control................................................................................................................................................................. ____
Check for damage and leaks.
Constant Velocity Joint Boot................................................................................................................................................................ ____
Coolant.................................................................................................................................................................................................. ____
Check fluid level & add if necessary.
Exhaust System..................................................................................................................................................................................... ____
Check for damage and leaks.
Lighting and Horns............................................................................................................................................................................... ____
Check the lights.
Manual Transmission/Transaxle........................................................................................................................................................... ____
Check shift and clutch interlock.
Shift Interlock, A/T (Vehicle with Automatic Shift Lock (ASL).)....................................................................................................... ____
Check operation, including the park/neutral position switch (where applicable).
Tires...................................................................................................................................................................................................... ____
Check condition and pressure, including spare.
Windshield Washer Reservoir.............................................................................................................................................................. ____
Check fluid level & add if necessary.
Lubricate
Doors..................................................................................................................................................................................................... ____
Replace
Engine Oil............................................................................................................................................................................................. ____
Oil Filter, Engine................................................................................................................................................................................... ____
Reset
Service Reminder Indicators...............................................

low on rad fluid, add, test n might be leaking

1. Drive the vehicle until the fluid temperature reaches normal operating the usual temperature [80-90°C (176-194°F)]. 2. Place the vehicle on a level floor. 3. Move the selector lever sequentially to every position. This will fill the torque converter and hydraulic system with fluid, then place lever in "N" (Neutral) position. 4. Before removing the dipstick, wipe all contaminate from area around the dipstick. Then take out the dipstick and check the condition of the fluid. The transaxle should be overhauled under the following conditions. a. If there is a "burning" odor. b. If the fluid color has become noticeably blacker. c. If there is a noticeably excessive amount of metal particles in the fluid. 5. Check to see if the fluid level is in the "HOT" range on dipstick. If fluid level is low, add automatic transaxle fluid until the level reaches the "HOT" range. Transaxle fluid: GENUINE HYUNDAI ATF SP-II, DIAMOND ATF SP-II or AUTRAN MMSP-II. Low fluid level can cause a variety of abnormal conditions because it allows the pump to take in air along with fluid. Air trapped in the hydraulic system forms bubbles which are compressable. Therefore, pressures will be erratic, causing delayed shifting, slipping clutch and brakes, etc. Improper filling can also raise fluid level too high. When the transaxle has too much fluid, gears churn up foam and cause the same conditions which occur with low fluid level, resulting in accelerated deterioration of automatic transaxle fluid. In either case, air bubbles can cause overheating, and fluid oxidation, which can interfere with normal valve, clutch, and servo operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping from the transaxle vent where it may be mistaken for a leak. 6. Be sure to examine the fluid on the dipstick closely.