Does Ford use 1234yf refrigerant?

Yes. Ford uses R-1234yf refrigerant in the vast majority of its modern vehicles; older models and some regional markets may still rely on R-134a where regulations or vehicle age permit.

Understanding 1234yf and regulatory context

R-1234yf is the low-GWP refrigerant adopted to replace R-134a in most automotive air conditioning systems. It has a global warming potential of about 4, compared with roughly 1,430 for R-134a, making it a preferred option under many environmental rules. Because 1234yf is mildly flammable (classified as A2L), it requires specialized handling and service equipment.

What is R-1234yf?

R-1234yf, also called HFO-1234yf, is the refrigerant Ford and other automakers increasingly use in new vehicles. It delivers similar cooling performance to R-134a but with far lower environmental impact. Service equipment, hoses, and recovery systems are designed specifically for 1234yf, and technicians follow safety guidelines due to its A2L flammability classification.

Regulatory drivers

Regulatory programs in Europe, North America, and other regions have pushed automakers to adopt 1234yf as older R-134a refrigerants phase out or are restricted. The European Union’s F-Gas regulations, along with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and other national programs, accelerated the transition during the mid-to-late 2010s and continues to influence new-model design and service practices.

Ford's adoption timeline

Ford began transitioning to 1234yf on its new vehicles in the mid-2010s, and by the end of the decade, 1234yf had become the standard refrigerant for most Ford light-duty vehicles in many markets. While nearly all new Ford cars, SUVs, and trucks are equipped for 1234yf, some very old models or certain regional offerings may still use R-134a, especially where regulations are less stringent or where the vehicle has not been updated.

Key points about Ford's refrigerant usage:

• Mid-2010s onward: 1234yf is standard on most new Ford light-duty vehicles.


• Older models or some regional variants: R-134a may still appear in limited cases.


• Service equipment and training: Ford service facilities use 1234yf-compatible tools and procedures, including recovery and recycling equipment.

Conclusion: For a given Ford model, the refrigerant type depends on the model year and market. If in doubt, check the vehicle’s service label or consult a Ford dealer or certified technician.

How to verify the refrigerant type in your Ford

To confirm which refrigerant your specific Ford uses, follow these steps:

• Look for the A/C service label on the vehicle. This label, usually located near the service ports or on the radiator support, will list the approved refrigerant (e.g., R-1234yf or R-134a).


• Check the owner’s manual or a factory service manual for the model year’s recommended refrigerant.


• Ask a Ford dealer or a certified automotive HVAC technician who can verify by VIN and model configuration.

Note: Using the incorrect refrigerant or improper recovery can damage the system and void warranties, so it’s important to confirm before performing any service or recharge.

What to do if you own an older Ford or a regional variant

If you own a vintage Ford or a model intended for markets with different regulations, you may encounter R-134a. In such cases, retrofit or servicing should be performed by a qualified technician who can assess whether a retrofit to 1234yf is appropriate and compliant with local regulations and vehicle specifications. Some regions may require documenting the refrigerant type on service records for compliance purposes.

Summary

Ford’s current standard for new vehicles is R-1234yf, reflecting global efforts to reduce refrigerant global warming potential. While the vast majority of modern Ford cars, trucks, and SUVs use 1234yf, older vehicles or certain regional models may still utilize R-134a. To be certain, check the A/C service label on the car, consult the owner's manual, or contact a Ford dealer. Proper identification ensures safe handling, compliant service, and optimal cooling performance.

What vehicles use R-1234YF refrigerant?

As of 2021, ALL vehicles sold in the US are now equipped with 1234YF Freon in the Air Conditioning System. If you have a vehicle that needs Air Conditioning repairs, we at Automotive Blessings have the machine and training to accurately repair the system.

What year is 1234YF mandatory?

Despite these costs, the transition to 1234-YF is mandatory, with many post-2012 vehicles using this refrigerant, and by 2021, all new cars require it. If you own an older vehicle that still uses R134A, you can continue using it without concerns.

What refrigerant does Ford use?

Ford uses both R-134a and R-1234yf refrigerants, with R-134a used in most models prior to 2017 and R-1234yf in many newer models, particularly those manufactured after 2017. The correct type of refrigerant depends on the specific vehicle's model year and system, so it is essential to check the vehicle's label or owner's manual to confirm the exact type needed. 

• R-134a: This was the standard refrigerant for many Ford vehicles for years. You can often find it specified with a Ford part number like YN-19. 
• R-1234yf: This is a newer, more environmentally friendly refrigerant that has been phased in for use in many newer models, starting around 2017. 
• How to check: The most reliable way to know which refrigerant your vehicle uses is to look for a sticker or label under the hood or in the owner's manual. It will specify the correct refrigerant type and capacity. 

What happens if I put R-134a in a R-1234YF car?

Putting R-134a in an R-1234yf system can cause significant damage, including evaporator freezing, reduced cooling performance, and potential component failure, because the two refrigerants have different pressures and properties. It is also a violation of federal law to intentionally replace R-1234yf with R-134a, as the systems are designed with specific, incompatible components. 
You can watch this video to learn about the differences between R134a and R1234yf refrigerants: 55sCST ChillingSolutionsTrainingYouTube · Jul 18, 2023
Reasons not to use R-134a in an R-1234yf system 

• Different pressures and properties: R-1234yf systems are designed with specific pressure and flow rates in mind. Using R-134a can alter these pressures, potentially leading to the evaporator freezing and blocking airflow. 
• Component incompatibility: The expansion valve and other components in an R-1234yf system are different from those in an R-134a system. Using the wrong refrigerant can cause incorrect flow and heat exchange, leading to poor performance and damage. 
• Compatibility issues with oil: The lubricants used in R-1234yf systems are not compatible with R-134a. Mixing them can degrade the oil, leading to excessive wear and eventual compressor failure. 
• Physical connection: R-1234yf systems have different, non-interchangeable service fittings to physically prevent cross-contamination with R-134a. Adapters are required to connect R-134a hoses, which is a major red flag that you should not proceed. 
• Legal implications: It is a violation of the Clean Air Act to intentionally replace R-1234yf with R-134a. 
• Environmental impact: R-1234yf was developed as an environmentally friendly alternative to R-134a because it has a much lower global warming potential (GWP). Using R-134a negates this benefit. 

This video explains the physical differences between R134a and R1234yf service fittings: 1mBrian BalatbatYouTube · Feb 4, 2024
What to do if contamination occurs
If R-134a is mistakenly introduced into an R-1234yf system, the system must be completely flushed and all components replaced to prevent long-term damage. This includes the condenser, desiccant, and compressor oil.