What AC refrigerant does Honda use?

Most current Honda vehicles use R-1234yf refrigerant, while older models commonly used R-134a. The exact refrigerant depends on model year and region.

Refrigerant choices are shaped by environmental regulations. Honda began adopting the low-GWP R-1234yf in new cars in many regions from the mid-2010s onward, while still supporting service for legacy 134a systems on older models.

Context: refrigerants and regulations

Two refrigerants are common in automotive air conditioning today. R-134a has a higher global warming potential (GWP), while R-1234yf has a much lower GWP. Regulations in Europe, North America, and other regions have accelerated the transition to 1234yf for new vehicles to reduce emissions and meet climate targets. Technicians servicing Honda A/C systems must use the correct refrigerant for the vehicle’s year and market.

In practice, this means newer Honda models are designed for 1234yf, and service documentation for those vehicles specifies 1234yf refrigerant and the proper oil type. Older Honda models, especially those produced before the transition period, typically require 134a for both charging and servicing.

Honda's refrigerant usage by market and model year

Below is a concise snapshot of how Honda’s refrigerant choice has evolved by model year and region. This reflects current manufacturing trends; always confirm for a specific vehicle by checking the under-hood label or dealer documentation.

• New Honda vehicles (roughly mid-2010s to present in most regions): R-1234yf is the standard refrigerant.


• Older Honda models (pre-2016 in many markets): R-134a was common and is still referenced for servicing older systems.


• Regional variations: Some markets transitioned earlier or later depending on local regulations and production timing; always verify for a given model/year.

For certainty on a specific car, consult the owner’s manual, the A/C system label located under the hood, or contact a Honda dealer or authorized service center.

Service considerations for owners and technicians

Do not mix refrigerants or use the wrong oil in a system. If a recharge or leak repair is needed, rely on a qualified technician who will identify the correct refrigerant (1234yf or 134a) for the vehicle’s year, model, and market and follow the proper service procedures.

Summary

Honda’s refrigerant approach aligns with industry shifts toward lower-GWP options. Current models predominantly use R-1234yf, while older models may require R-134a. Always verify with model-year-specific documentation and vehicle labeling.

Bottom line: R-1234yf is the standard for modern Hondas, with R-134a still relevant for older cars or certain regional contexts.

What year did Honda start using 1234yf?

General Motors began introducing vehicles to the market utilizing this new system in 2013 with full conversion in 2018. Chrysler, Honda, and Subaru models followed in 2017. It is anticipated that by 2025 all vehicles will contain 1234YF.

Does my car use R-134a or R-1234yf?

Finding out which refrigerant your vehicle uses is easy with the help of A/C Pro®. The first place to look for this information is under the hood. Pop the hood and look for a label, which is usually white or bright yellow. On this it will either say “R-134a” or “R-1234yf,” and it may even say what the capacity is.

Does Honda use 1234yf?

Understanding Your Honda's A/C Technology
Many newer Honda models use R-1234yf refrigerant, which provides excellent cooling performance while having significantly lower global warming potential compared to older refrigerant types.

Can you mix 1234yf and 134a refrigerant?

No, you absolutely cannot mix R134a and R1234yf refrigerants, as they are not compatible and doing so can cause serious damage to your vehicle's air conditioning system. Mixing them can lead to system overheating, clogged passages, and compressor failure. If a system has been contaminated with both, it must be completely evacuated, flushed, and refilled with the correct refrigerant.
 
Why you cannot mix them

• Incompatibility: The refrigerants have different chemical properties and performance characteristics, meaning they are not designed to work together. 
• Oil and lubricant issues: The oils used with each refrigerant are not compatible and mixing them can damage the compressor. 
• Physical differences: R1234yf systems use different-sized service fittings to prevent accidental mixing. 
• Performance problems: Mixing can cause the system to function incorrectly, leading to issues like evaporator freeze-up and a reduction in cooling efficiency. 
• System damage: The incompatible components can lead to catastrophic failure, with the compressor being particularly susceptible to damage from liquid refrigerant or improper oiling. 

You can watch this video to see a comparison of the differences between R134a and R1234yf refrigerants: 55sAC PROYouTube · Mar 19, 2025
What to do if your system is contaminated

• Do not run the system: If you suspect contamination, avoid running the AC system. 
• Take it to a professional: The system must be serviced by a professional with the right equipment to fully evacuate, flush, and recharge it with the correct refrigerant for your vehicle. 
• Replace parts: Depending on the extent of the contamination, parts like the condenser, desiccant, and compressor oil may need to be replaced.