How much freon does a 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 hold?
The 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 uses R-134a refrigerant and typically holds about 29–32 ounces (1.8–2.0 pounds) of refrigerant in a full, stock A/C system.
Details matter: the exact charge can vary based on factory options, installed components, and service history. For an accurate specification, check the hood label on your Ram 1500 and consult the factory service manual. While “Freon” is a common term, the correct refrigerant for this model year is R-134a, and proper charging requires weighing the refrigerant rather than pouring by can volume.
Refrigerant type and total system capacity
In this model year, the air conditioning system is designed around R-134a refrigerant. The total system capacity is typically cited as a little under 2 pounds, but exact figures can vary with hardware changes or service history.
The following figures reflect a typical, stock configuration for a 2010 Ram 1500. They are intended as a practical guide and should be verified against the hood label or service manual.
- Total refrigerant charge: approximately 29–32 ounces (about 1.8–2.0 pounds, or 0.82–0.91 kilograms) of R-134a for a stock system.
- Lubricant: typically 4–8 ounces of PAG oil (often PAG 46), depending on service history and whether components were replaced; the oil is part of the overall system charge and must be added per the manual.
- Variations: actual capacity can shift slightly if aftermarket components or component upgrades were installed after manufacture.
Conclusion: The expected charge for a factory-spec 2010 Ram 1500 is in the ~29–32 oz range, with an accompanying oil charge. Always confirm with the hood label and/or Chrysler/Mopar service documentation for your exact vehicle.
Charging and service steps
Before attempting to recharge, technicians follow a precise procedure to ensure the system is clean, dry, and charged to spec. The following steps outline the typical process for a standard Ramb 1500 A/C recharge.
- Evacuate the system to a deep vacuum (commonly around 30 inches of mercury or better for 30 minutes) to remove moisture and air.
- Weigh in the refrigerant: add 29–32 ounces of R-134a using a calibrated scale, ensuring the total charge meets the specified weight for your vehicle.
- Install the correct amount of lubricant (PAG oil) as prescribed by the service manual, and verify that the compressor and system oil balance is correct.
- Check for leaks, replace the receiver/drier if needed, and test the system under operating conditions to confirm proper cooling performance.
Conclusion: Following a weight-based charging procedure with proper vacuum and leak checks helps ensure the system delivers the intended cooling performance without overfilling or under-lubricating the compressor.
Important considerations
Notes to keep in mind when dealing with the Ram 1500 A/C system:
- The correct refrigerant for this model year is R-134a; newer vehicles may use R-1234yf, but not the 2010 Ram 1500.
- Do not vent refrigerant into the atmosphere. Have a licensed technician perform charging and recovery if needed.
- Exact capacity can vary with vehicle condition and installed equipment; always verify with the hood label or service manual.
Summary
For a 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 in stock configuration, the total A/C refrigerant charge is about 29–32 ounces of R-134a, with an additional PAG oil charge of roughly 4–8 ounces. Verify the exact weight on the hood label and follow the service manual for correct evacuation and charging procedures to ensure optimal cooling performance.
