What AC refrigerant does my car use?
Most cars built since around 2013 use R-1234yf; older vehicles commonly use R-134a, and cars built before the mid-1990s used R-12. A small number of niche or experimental models use CO2 (R-744). The exact refrigerant for your car should be verified in the owner's manual, under-hood labels, or from a dealer or mechanic.
In this article, you’ll learn how to identify which refrigerant your vehicle uses, why the distinction matters for maintenance and safety, and where to look or who to ask to confirm the correct refrigerant before servicing.
How to identify the refrigerant in your vehicle
Use these steps to track down the refrigerant type. The information is typically located on a label near the service ports, inside the fuse/relay panel, on the radiator support, or in the owner's manual. If you can’t locate it, a dealership or qualified technician can confirm it from the VIN and model year.
- Check the owner's manual or the official manufacturer specifications for your specific model and year.
- Inspect any under-hood labels or service decals that indicate the approved refrigerant (R-134a, R-1234yf, or others) and the required lubricant type.
- Look at the service ports and fittings; while colors can vary by region, the documentation is the definitive source for which refrigerant your system uses.
- Ask a dealership or a licensed automotive technician who can read your VIN and verify the refrigerant specification for your build.
Concluding: R-134a and R-1234yf are the two most common refrigerants in modern cars, with R-12 largely found only in very old vehicles or vehicles that have been converted. CO2 (R-744) systems exist but are rare in mainstream passenger cars.
Notes on how refrigerant choice affects service
Handling refrigerant requires proper equipment and safety protocols. Do not release refrigerant into the atmosphere. Have a licensed shop recover, recycle, or recharge refrigerant, and ensure the correct refrigerant grade, oil type, and charge amount are used for your specific system.
Common refrigerant scenarios by era
Here is a quick guide to what you’re likely to encounter based on model year ranges. Always verify with the vehicle documentation or a professional, as there are exceptions and regional variations.
- Pre-1990s: R-12 (CFC) was widely used; today it’s largely restricted and replaced in service, with many cars converted to R-134a.
- 1990s–early 2010s: R-134a dominates the market in most regions.
- Mid-2010s onward: R-1234yf becomes the standard for new models in many markets due to lower global warming potential.
- Some newer or niche vehicles may employ CO2 (R-744) systems, but this is not common in mainstream passenger cars.
Concluding: The refrigerant you need depends on the model year, region, and design choices. When in doubt, consult the owner's manual or a qualified technician to confirm before any service or recharge.
Summary
For most drivers today, the practical reality is that newer cars typically use R-1234yf, while older vehicles use R-134a, and only very old cars or special cases use R-12. CO2-based systems are rare exceptions. Always verify with the vehicle’s documentation or a professional before servicing to ensure you use the correct refrigerant and avoid damaging the system.
