Parts for your 2020 Mitsubishi Asx-Receiver driers

2020 Mitsubishi ASX receiver‑drier: what it is and when to replace it

Based on Mitsubishi technical information, the 2020 Mitsubishi ASX does use a receiver‑drier function, but it’s built into the A/C condenser rather than a separate canister. The Mitsubishi Motors Service Manual (Group 55A Heating & Air Conditioning) for the GA/GM series ASX describes a TXV (thermal expansion valve) system with a condenser‑mounted desiccant/filter. Mitsubishi ASA/CAPS parts catalogues list the condenser as containing the desiccant/receiver element, and aftermarket catalogues from well‑known suppliers also specify an integrated drier for 2019–2021 ASX models. So, while you won’t spot a stand‑alone drier under the bonnet, the ASX definitely relies on a receiver‑drier—it's just inside the condenser assembly.

What does that mean for owners? The receiver‑drier’s job is to store liquid refrigerant, remove moisture with a desiccant pack, and trap fine debris that can harm the TXV or compressor. Moisture in an A/C system is bad news: it can freeze and block passages, corrode metal, and break down compressor oil. The drier is the system’s moisture sponge and last‑chance filter.

There’s no fixed time‑based service interval for the ASX’s receiver‑drier. Instead, it’s a “replace when the system’s opened” part. Any time the A/C circuit is opened to the atmosphere—say, after a crash repair, condenser replacement, or major hose/line work—the desiccant can become saturated and should be renewed. On a 2020 ASX, that usually means replacing the condenser assembly. Some variants allow a service desiccant bag kit, but many workshops simply fit a new condenser that includes a fresh drier.

• Replace the receiver‑drier when:
  • The condenser is replaced or the A/C has been open.
  • The compressor has failed or there’s evidence of debris/contamination.
  • Moisture ingress is suspected (acidic oil, rapid performance drop, or repeated TXV issues).

Good workshop practice on the ASX includes renewing O‑rings, using the correct PAG oil balance for components replaced, evacuating the system with a quality vacuum pump, and recharging to the exact specified mass of the factory refrigerant. Because handling refrigerant is a licenced task, it’s best left to an ARCtick‑licensed (AU) or appropriately certified (NZ) technician.

Common signs the drier may be past it include weak or inconsistent cooling, pressure fluctuations on gauges, or restrictions that cause the TXV to hunt. Catching it early protects the compressor and keeps the cabin cold without fuss.

• Does the 2020 ASX have a separate receiver‑drier canister?
  Not typically. For this model, the receiver‑drier is integrated into the condenser assembly. That’s how Mitsubishi designed the TXV system for the GA/GM‑series ASX—manuals and parts catalogues show the desiccant/receiver element as part of the condenser rather than a stand‑alone unit.
• When should the receiver‑drier be replaced on a 2020 ASX?
  There’s no routine interval. It should be renewed any time the A/C system is opened, after compressor failure, or if moisture/contamination is suspected. On many ASX models this is done by replacing the condenser, which includes a fresh desiccant pack.
• Can just the desiccant bag be changed instead of the whole condenser?
  Some ASX variants allow a serviceable desiccant bag kit, but availability differs by build and market. A technician can check the VIN and parts data, if a bag kit isn’t specified, the correct fix is a new condenser assembly.