Just did this today (replaced coil) in 3.0i you can do it without discharging system, I did it 2nd time (more later)

Just take fan/shrout out and then work from a bottom (remove plastic shield)

1. Take belt off (torx)
2. Take center bolt in compressor clutch (Torx T30), I held pulley in place using this rubber-belt type oil filter wrench.
3. Top plate should come out, wiggle it out.
4. Remove snap ring from inside and take out pulley. Snap ring is tricky, but doable with 90 degree snap ring pliers. Now you will see coil.
5. I did take 3 compressor bolts (13mm) out and pushed compressor about an inch backwards to get more room (lines still connected)
6. Remove snap ring and remove coil (disconnect)


Coil from eBay will have locating pin either grinded or in a wrong spot. I did replace this coil in 2009 and seller said that snap ring will hold it, no need for pin. Today I took old one (was burning fuses) - and YES, it spin and shorted power wire to ground.

This time I degreased surfaces and put some RTV inbetween coil and compressor. It should act as non-slip and glue.