What kind of refrigerant does Lexus AC use?
Most current Lexus models use R-1234yf refrigerant for the air conditioning system, while older Lexus models relied on R-134a. This reflects the automotive industry’s shift toward lower global warming potential refrigerants in recent years.
In more detail, the refrigerant type for a Lexus A/C system depends on the model year and the market. The switch from R-134a to R-1234yf began in the early to mid-2010s as manufacturers adopted the next-generation refrigerant with a much lower environmental impact. When servicing a specific vehicle, technicians confirm the correct refrigerant type from service labels, the owner's manual, or the dealership, since incorrect charging can damage the system and violate regulations.
Current practice across Lexus models
The automotive industry broadly moved to R-1234yf for new light-duty vehicles, including most Lexus models produced from roughly 2013 onward. Some very early or region-specific examples may still have R-134a, but they are increasingly rare in production cars.
Model year and regional notes
In North America, Europe, and many other markets, the majority of Lexus models from the mid-2010s forward use R-1234yf. If you own an older model or live in a market with slower model rollouts, your vehicle could still be equipped with R-134a. Always verify the exact refrigerant type for your specific car by checking the under-hood label, the owner’s manual, or asking a Lexus service technician.
The following points summarize which refrigerants have been used by Lexus over the years and how to identify the current system in your vehicle:
- Historical usage: Pre-2013/2014 Lexus models commonly used R-134a; newer models predominantly use R-1234yf.
- Regulatory drivers: The switch to R-1234yf was driven by environmental regulations aimed at reducing global warming potential (GWP).
- Model-year and market variation: Check your specific model year and regional rollout, as there can be exceptions.
The list highlights the general trend, but always verify the exact refrigerant type for your car with official documentation or a qualified technician.
How to identify the refrigerant in your Lexus
- Look for the service label on the A/C lines or near the engine bay, which typically lists the refrigerant type (R-1234yf or R-134a) and the required oil.
- Consult the owner’s manual or the vehicle’s service manual for the refrigerant specification and oil type.
- Ask a Lexus dealer or a certified automotive HVAC technician, who can confirm the refrigerant type based on the VIN and model year.
Conclusion: When servicing or recharging the A/C system, always use the refrigerant specified for your vehicle and have a qualified technician perform the work to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
Summary
In short, Lexus primarily uses R-1234yf refrigerant in its current-generation air conditioning systems, with older models historically using R-134a. The shift to R-1234yf aligns with environmental regulations designed to reduce the refrigerant’s global warming impact. To determine the exact refrigerant for a specific Lexus, check the under-hood label, consult the owner’s manual, or ask a qualified Lexus technician.
Can you recharge R-1234yf yourself?
It used to be that only professionals could recharge an AC system, but there are now kits available to do it on your own. What you'll need is: AC recharge kit with refrigerant (R-134a or R-1234yf, depending on your vehicle) Safety gloves and goggles.
What kind of Freon does Lexus use?
R-134a
The Lexus AC system not only keeps you cool, but it also plays an important part in safety year-round. As recommended maintenance, automobile air conditioners should be recharged with refrigerant every two years or as recommended. Since the Freon phaseout, car AC's have used a safer refrigerant called R-134a.
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.
What kind of refrigerant does a 2010 Lexus RX350 take?
R-134a PAG 46
Essential 2010 Lexus RX350 Refrigerants
R-134a PAG 46 AC Oil Lubricant: with ICE 32 Lubricant Enhancer features advanced chemistry to help extend compressor life and improve cooling capacity.
