Parts for your 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer-Tx valve

1998 Mitsubishi Lancer TX Valve — What It Does and When to Replace It

Yes, the 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer uses a TX valve (thermostatic expansion valve) in its air-conditioning system. This is shown in the Mitsubishi Lancer CE/CK workshop manual (HVAC/Group 55), where the TXV is illustrated at the evaporator inlet, and it’s also listed in the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue for the CE-series Lancer. Major A/C component catalogues from OEM suppliers (e.g., Denso) and aftermarket distributors used in AU/NZ likewise specify a TX valve for 1996–2000 Lancer variants.

On this Lancer, the TX valve’s job is to meter R134a refrigerant into the evaporator based on load and temperature, keeping superheat in check. That helps deliver cold air at the vents without freezing the core, protects the compressor from liquid slugging, and keeps cabin comfort steady whether you’re idling in traffic or cruising down the motorway.

Located at the evaporator inlet (behind the glovebox/at the firewall area), the TXV is a block-style unit that’s insulated and sealed with O-rings. When it starts to play up, common clues include weak or inconsistent cooling, vent temperatures that swing hot–cold, frosting on the evaporator or TXV, and odd hissing with low suction pressure readings. A stuck-closed or restricted valve gives poor cooling and icing, a stuck-open valve can lead to high suction pressure and lukewarm air.

Replacement isn’t a routine service item, but it’s smart to address the TXV if there’s a confirmed fault, contamination, or after a compressor failure. Because refrigerant is regulated in Australia and New Zealand, any degassing and re-gassing must be done by an ARCtick-licensed (or locally approved) technician.

• Recover refrigerant legally, don’t vent it.
• Remove the glovebox/evaporator access and disconnect lines with two spanners to avoid twisting pipes.
• Fit the new TXV with fresh, correct-spec O-rings lightly lubricated with the right PAG oil, restore insulation.
• Replace the receiver-drier whenever the system’s been opened, and flush if debris is suspected.
• Evacuate (vacuum) for at least 30 minutes, then recharge the exact R134a mass shown on the under-bonnet label, add oil as required.
• Pressure-test and leak-check, confirm fans and condenser are clean for best performance.

There’s not much day-to-day maintenance for a healthy TXV. Keep the A/C exercised regularly, fix leaks early, and, if equipped, change the cabin filter so airflow across the evaporator stays up to scratch.

Popular questions

Does a 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer use a TX valve or an orifice tube?

It uses a TX valve. Technical references for the CE/CK Lancer A/C system show a thermostatic expansion valve at the evaporator inlet. That design gives better control of superheat and more stable cabin temps than a fixed orifice tube setup.

Where is the TX valve on a 1998 Lancer?

It’s mounted at the evaporator inlet behind the glovebox/at the firewall area. Access typically involves removing the glovebox and trim, then separating the refrigerant lines at the evaporator block to expose the valve.

Should the receiver-drier be replaced when changing the TX valve?

Yes. Any time the system is opened, best practice is to fit a new receiver-drier, evacuate thoroughly, and recharge to the specified R134a quantity. It helps protect the new TXV and the compressor from moisture and debris.