Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Air Conditioner Certification Practice Exam 2025 – Your All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

Using new O-rings that are lubricated with refrigerant oil is crucial when assembling spring lock fittings in an A/C system. New O-rings ensure a proper seal, preventing refrigerant leaks, which can lead to system inefficiencies and environmental concerns. The lubricating oil helps the O-rings to seat properly, reduces the risk of tearing or damaging the O-ring during installation, and ensures a tight fit that can withstand the pressures within the A/C system.

Reusing old O-rings, as suggested in one of the other options, compromises the integrity of the seal and increases the likelihood of leaks, leading to potential performance issues and costly repairs. Installing a new compressor with new fittings is generally not necessary unless there’s a specific failure that warrants such action, and while a special tool may assist in the assembly of fittings, it is the O-ring's integrity that predominantly influences the efficiency and reliability of the connection.