And remember: Automotive refrigerant types don’t mix ! Unique machinery is required to service a vehicle for each type of refrigerant inside. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual to find out what refrigerant your car uses before having the system serviced.
What kind of Freon do I use for my car?
Vehicles manufactured before the 1994 model year used R-12 (also referred to CFC-12 or Freon). Newer vehicles rely on R-134a refrigerant , also known as HFC-134a.
Does it matter what kind of freon you put in your car?
In most cars that are on the road today, R134a refrigerant makes the A/C system blow cold on hot days. Selected for its low flammability and safety, as well as because it’s kinder to the environment, almost every car built since 1994 is equipped with R134 refrigerant. However, kinder is the key word.
Can I use any refrigerant in my car?
If you use anything other than R134a , you’ll likely create a situation where you must be the one servicing the system. Even if you’re OK with that, if the system needs work, any refrigerant in it will need to be recovered.
Can you put the wrong Freon in your car?
When using these types of propane refrigerants it is possible that they could combust when putting them in units where they are not designed. ... This can cause great bodily harm, property damage, and in a severe case even death.
Do modern cars still use freon?
Today, nearly all new vehicles offer air conditioning as standard , or at least make it available. Few can imagine driving without it. Before 1995, the refrigerant of choice was dichlorodifluoromethane
Can a car lose refrigerant without a leak?
Refrigerant gas does not “wear out” like oil nor is it used up like fuel. In a properly sealed system the gas can continue being compressed and released over and over, so long as it doesn’t leak out .
Does AutoZone check Freon?
When it’s time for an AC recharge, turn to AutoZone. We carry R134a refrigerant, PAG46 oil, AC stop leak, AC system cleaner, and more. AutoZone will test your car’s parts for free.
What happens if you put too much refrigerant in car?
If it’s overcharged, the decompression from liquid into gas can’ t occur so your compressor is squirting out liquid coolant instead of gas coolant. The results will be a noticeable sound as your AC compressor struggles to pump everything through the lines.
Does AutoZone add Freon to cars?
What Happens If You Overcharge Your AC? ... If you need help performing this, or any AC recharge or service, check out our list of preferred shops in your area that can help. Or, if you’d like to tackle the job yourself, AutoZone has all the tools and refrigerant to service your R-134A or R-12 vehicle.
Are AC recharge kits worth it?
If you ask me, yes, they are worth it . But here’s the thing, you have to realize that an AC recharge kit is not a fix for your broken system. No, it doesn’t fix it at all. ... Remember, that your air conditioner is a completely sealed system.
What happens if you use the wrong freon?
You cannot mix refrigerant types, and putting the wrong refrigerant in your car will cause damage to the air conditioning system ! If you’re not sure which kind of refrigerant your vehicle takes, DIY A/C charging may not be for you.
Can I recharge my cars AC myself?
If your car’s air conditioner isn’t blowing cool air, then you’ve likely lost some of the refrigerant, usually due to a leak. You can recharge the system yourself with a charging kit and some refrigerant, as long as your car uses r134a refrigerant .
Can I put r22 in my car?
R-22 in household refrigeration units is now substituted with R502, but it is not recommended for automotive use . R134A or HFC-134A became the accepted standard, because it has no potential of ozone depletion and has similar (but not equal to) cooling abilities to the R-12 and R-22 refrigerants.
Why is my car AC not blowing cold air?
Air Conditioning Not Working in Your Car? ... The most common causes of broken air conditioning are leaks or compressor issues. If your air is blowing cool but not cold, the problem could be a clogged filter , cooling fan problem, radiator trouble, or it could simply be that you need to recharge your AC.
How do I know if my car AC needs recharging?
- Your A/C is Blowing Warm Air. One of the most obvious symptoms of low Freon levels is if your air conditioner is blowing warm or room temperature air. ...
- Listen For The A/C Clutch to Engage. ...
- Visible Refrigerant Leaks. ...
- Your A/C is Blowing Warm Air. ...
- Listen For The A/C Clutch to Engage. ...
- Visible Refrigerant Leaks.
