Honda S2000 A/C Receiver Drier Replacement Guide (2000-2009)
Keep your S2000's air conditioning blowing ice cold by choosing the right replacement A/C drier.
- You must replace the receiver drier any time the A/C system is opened for service.
- Verify your S2000's year; AP1 (2000-03) and AP2 (2004-09) models use different parts.
- Denso is the OEM-equivalent brand for the highest quality, while Four Seasons and GPD are reliable, budget-friendly options.
- Replacement is not a DIY job as it requires professional A/C evacuation and recharging equipment.
Is Your S2000's A/C Not as Cold as It Used to Be?
A failing A/C receiver drier is a common reason for poor air conditioning performance. Because its job is to absorb moisture, it has a limited lifespan, especially if there are any small leaks in the system. If your A/C compressor has failed, replacing the drier is not optional—it's required to prevent debris from the old compressor from destroying the new one.
Symptoms of a Bad A/C Receiver Drier
- Weak Cooling: The most common symptom is air from the vents that isn't cold or is only slightly cool.
- Musty Smell: Excess moisture in the system can lead to mold or mildew growth, causing a bad smell when you turn on the A/C.
- Foggy Windows: If your defroster can't clear the windshield effectively, it may be because the A/C system (which helps dehumidify the air) isn't working properly.
- After A/C Compressor Failure: If your compressor has seized or failed internally, the drier is considered contaminated and must be replaced along with the compressor.
AP1 vs. AP2: A Critical Ordering Mistake
The Honda S2000 uses two different A/C receiver driers depending on the model year. Ordering the wrong one will lead to installation problems. Always verify your vehicle's year before purchasing.
- 2000-2003 (AP1): Uses OEM Part # 80351-S04-A01.
- 2004-2009 (AP2): Uses OEM Part # 80351-S2A-901.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Drier
For the S2000, you have several good aftermarket options that offer a significant savings over the factory part. Since this part is a maintenance item that should be replaced whenever the system is serviced, choosing a quality aftermarket brand makes financial sense.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Tier 1: OEM-Equivalent (Denso)
- Denso is a well-respected OEM supplier for many Honda parts. Choosing a Denso drier is the safest bet for guaranteed fit, performance, and durability that matches the original part. It's the top choice if you want peace of mind.
- Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket (Four Seasons)
- Four Seasons is a major player in the aftermarket A/C world. Their parts are known to be reliable and are a solid choice for a daily driver or a car you want to keep running well without paying the premium for an OEM or Denso part. Many owners and shops use them with good results.
- Tier 3: Economy (Global Parts Distributors - GPD)
- GPD offers a budget-friendly alternative. For a component like a receiver drier, which is a simple filter and desiccant holder, an economy brand is often sufficient, especially if it's being replaced as part of a larger A/C service. These often come in kits with the necessary O-rings.
Pro Tip: Always Replace, Never Reuse
The desiccant material inside the drier absorbs moisture. Once it's exposed to the open air, it becomes saturated and can't protect your A/C system. You must install a new drier any time the A/C system is opened for repair, such as replacing a hose, condenser, or compressor.
Cost of Replacing an S2000 A/C Receiver Drier
| Part Type | Part Cost | Shop Labor Cost | Total Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $21.50 - $49.39 | $150 - $250 | $171.50 - $299.39 |
| New OEM | $213 - $304 | $150 - $250 | $363 - $554 |
Cost estimates do not include taxes, fees, or the cost of refrigerant and PAG oil. Labor costs reflect the need for professional evacuation and recharging of the A/C system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the A/C receiver drier myself?
While physically unbolting the old drier and installing the new one is easy, the complete job is not DIY-friendly. A/C systems are highly pressurized and contain refrigerant that must be legally and safely recovered with a special machine before opening the system. After the part is replaced, the system must be put into a deep vacuum to boil off any moisture before being recharged with the precise amount of refrigerant and oil. This requires expensive, specialized equipment.
What happens if I don't replace a bad drier?
Continuing to run your A/C with a saturated or clogged drier can lead to the catastrophic failure of your A/C compressor. Moisture in the system mixes with refrigerant to form corrosive acids, and lack of filtration allows debris to circulate. This turns a small, affordable repair into a very expensive one requiring replacement of multiple components.
How often should the receiver drier be replaced?
The receiver drier does not have a set replacement interval based on mileage or time. It should only be replaced when the A/C system is opened for any other service, or if the A/C compressor has failed.
Are there any recalls for the S2000 A/C system?
No. While Honda has issued warranty extensions for faulty A/C condensers on other models like the Civic and Accord, there are no active recalls or similar TSBs specifically for the A/C receiver drier on the 2000-2009 Honda S2000.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 80351-S04-A01 (2000-2003) 80351-S2A-901 (2004-2009)
Material: Aluminum. Desiccant: XH7 or equivalent. Connection: Pad Mount. Includes ports for A/C lines and a pressure switch.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Honda S2000:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your S2000's A/C Not as Cold as It Used to Be?
- Symptoms of a Bad A/C Receiver Drier
- AP1 vs. AP2: A Critical Ordering Mistake
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Drier
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Pro Tip: Always Replace, Never Reuse
- Cost of Replacing an S2000 A/C Receiver Drier
- Frequently Asked Questions
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