Parts for your 2003 Honda Cr-v-Tx valve

2003 Honda CR‑V TX Valve (A/C Expansion Valve)

Yes, the 2003 Honda CR‑V uses a TX valve (thermal expansion valve). Technical sources including the Honda 2002–2004 CR‑V Service Manual (A/C “Expansion Valve Removal/Installation” procedure) and Honda’s electronic parts catalog list an A/C Expansion Valve for this model (commonly referenced as 80220‑S9A‑003). Aftermarket catalogues also list an expansion valve for the 2003 CR‑V, confirming it’s a fitted component of the factory R‑134a system.

The TX valve’s job is to meter the right amount of liquid refrigerant into the evaporator based on superheat, keeping the cabin cool without flooding the compressor. On the 2003 CR‑V it’s mounted at the evaporator inlet behind the glovebox. By regulating flow as conditions change (idle in city traffic vs. cruising the motorway), it stabilises evaporator pressure, improves dehumidification, and protects the compressor from liquid slugging.

There’s no routine maintenance for the TX valve itself, it’s typically replaced only when there are symptoms. Tell‑tales include weak cooling or temps that swing hot‑cold, frost on the low‑pressure line, compressor short‑cycling, hissing at the case, or pressure readings that don’t match spec. Contamination from a failing compressor or moisture in the system can also make the valve stick or clog.

When replacement is due, best practice is to:

• Recover refrigerant and evacuate/recharge by weight to the spec on the under‑bonnet label (R‑134a).
• Replace the receiver/drier or desiccant element and all disturbed O‑rings, lightly oil new O‑rings with the correct PAG oil.
• Inspect the condenser and flush lines where appropriate, if the compressor has failed, follow full clean‑out procedures.
• Torque fittings to the Honda spec in the service manual to prevent leaks.

Access involves removing the glovebox and opening the evaporator case, so it’s a bit fiddly. Because A/C work requires recovery equipment and licensing, using an ARCtick‑licensed technician in Australia or a suitably certified A/C specialist in New Zealand is the smart call. A good shop will verify operation with manifold gauges and check vent temps and superheat after the job.

Pro tip for CR‑V owners: if cooling fades at idle but returns on the open road, don’t just blame the fan—have the TX valve and charge level checked together. Matching a healthy TX valve with a clean condenser and correct charge keeps the K‑series CR‑V comfy through a long, hot summer.

Popular questions

Where is the TX valve on a 2003 Honda CR‑V?
It’s mounted at the evaporator inlet inside the HVAC case, directly behind the glovebox. Access usually involves dropping the glovebox, disconnecting the A/C lines at the firewall, and opening the evaporator housing to reach the valve.

What are common signs the TX valve is failing on this model?
Expect inconsistent vent temps, poor cooling at idle, visible frost on the suction line, compressor short‑cycling, or odd pressure readings. If the system’s been open to air or the compressor shed debris, the valve can stick or clog.

Can a sticky TX valve be cleaned, or should it be replaced?
On a CR‑V it’s generally more reliable to replace it. If contamination is present, simply cleaning won’t last—fit a new TX valve, renew the receiver/drier or desiccant, flush as required, then evacuate and recharge to the correct weight.