What kind of refrigerant does a 2016 Subaru Forester take?
The 2016 Subaru Forester primarily uses R-134a refrigerant with PAG oil. Check the under-hood service label on your specific vehicle to confirm, since regional variations can occur and some markets later experimented with different refrigerants.
Refrigerant type and what to expect
For most 2016 Forester models, the air conditioning system is designed for R-134a. Starting in later years, some Subaru models and markets began adopting R-1234yf, but that shift did not universally apply to the 2016 Forester. Using the wrong refrigerant can damage components or affect climate performance, so verification is essential.
- The standard refrigerant for a 2016 Forester is typically R-134a with PAG oil. The exact oil grade (often PAG-46) is specified on the service label under the hood.
- R-1234yf is a newer refrigerant used in some later vehicles and requires different oil and service equipment. Do not substitute 1234yf unless your vehicle's label explicitly allows it.
- Always use equipment and fluids compatible with R-134a (recovery/recycling machines, charging connectors, and refrigerant oil) to avoid cross-contamination.
In summary, most 2016 Forester units expect R-134a refrigerant with an appropriate PAG oil specification, with the exact details found on the vehicle’s service label or in the owner's manual. If there is any doubt about regional variations or retrofits, consult a Subaru dealer or a certified automotive technician before servicing.
How to verify the exact specification for your car
To ensure you’re using the correct refrigerant for your specific vehicle, follow these steps:
- Look for the refrigerant label on the A/C service ports or on the underside of the hood; the label lists the required refrigerant type (R-134a or otherwise) and the recommended oil.
- Consult the owner’s manual or the Subaru service information for your VIN; regional differences can occur, and some markets may have different specifications.
- If you’re unsure, ask a Subaru-certified technician or your local dealer to confirm the correct refrigerant and oil before any recharge or repair.
Confirming the exact specification helps protect the system and maintain performance, especially in climates where A/C usage is intensive.
Summary
For a 2016 Subaru Forester, the typical refrigerant is R-134a with PAG oil. Always verify with the under-hood label or official documentation for your vehicle, as regional variations or retrofits can alter the specification. When in doubt, rely on a Subaru-certified technician to ensure proper refrigerant type and oil compatibility.
