What kind of refrigerant does a 2013 F150 EcoBoost take?
The 2013 Ford F-150 EcoBoost uses R-134a refrigerant.
In this article, we examine the refrigerant type for the EcoBoost model, why it matters for performance and maintenance, and what owners should know when servicing the air conditioning system on this year’s truck.
Refrigerant type and compatibility
Understanding the refrigerant type helps ensure proper cooling performance and avoids damage from incompatible blends. The 2013 F-150 EcoBoost relies on the legacy R-134a refrigerant, not the newer R-1234yf used in many later vehicles.
What is R-134a?
R-134a, also known as HFC-134a, has been the standard automotive refrigerant for many vehicles built before the mid-2010s. It operates with conventional PAG (polyalkylene glycol) oil in Ford A/C systems of this era and is compatible with common service equipment and recovery systems.
Service considerations for the 2013 F-150 EcoBoost
Before inspecting or servicing the air conditioning system, it’s helpful to know the key facts to keep the system functioning properly and safely.
- Refrigerant type: R-134a (HFC-134a).
- Lubricant: PAG 46 is recommended for the compressor oil in most 2013 F-Series A/C systems.
- Charging capacity: The system typically holds about 2.0 to 2.5 pounds (0.9–1.1 kg) of R-134a, though exact capacity can vary with options and configuration.
- Retrofit considerations: Converting to R-1234yf is not standard for a 2013 F-150 and requires a substantial retrofit of major components and oils; it should not be attempted as a routine modification.
- Service safety: Refrigerant should be recovered and handled with approved equipment; avoid releasing refrigerant into the atmosphere and consult a qualified technician for charging or repair work.
Bottom line: The 2013 F-150 EcoBoost uses R-134a refrigerant. If you’re planning service, confirm the exact capacity and oil requirements from the owner’s manual or a Ford service bulletin, and have a qualified technician perform any recharge or repair work.
Summary
For the 2013 Ford F-150 EcoBoost, the compatible refrigerant is R-134a, paired with PAG 46 oil. This year’s model predates the switch to R-1234yf, so standard R-134a service practices and professional handling remain essential for proper cooling performance and environmental responsibility. Always verify specifications in the owner’s manual or with a qualified technician before servicing.
