What refrigerant does Ford use?
Ford primarily uses R-1234yf refrigerant in its modern vehicles, with older models occasionally still employing R-134a. R-12 is no longer used in new Ford cars.
Starting in the mid-2010s, Ford began transitioning its fleet to the lower‑GWP (global warming potential) refrigerant R-1234yf to comply with evolving environmental regulations. The exact refrigerant on a given Ford vehicle depends on model year and regional requirements, so always verify with the vehicle’s service label or owner's manual when servicing or refilling the AC system.
Current refrigerant usage in Ford vehicles
Here is a snapshot of the current practice by region and model year.
- R-1234yf for most 2015 model year and newer Ford passenger cars and light trucks in North America, Europe, and many other markets.
- R-134a remains in use for some older Ford models that were engineered before the switch to 1234yf, or in markets where 1234yf adoption was slower.
- R-12 is not used in new Ford vehicles; only very old, non‑retrofilled units would be configured with R-12 outside typical restoration contexts.
In practice, when servicing a Ford AC system, check the service port labels or the owner's manual to confirm the required refrigerant for that specific vehicle and year.
Historical progression of refrigerants in Ford vehicles
Ford’s refrigerant choices evolved with shifts in regulation and technology. A concise timeline helps illustrate how the fleet moved from older standards to today’s norm.
- Pre-1990s: R-12 (CFC) was commonly used in vehicles, but regulatory changes led to its gradual phase‑out.
- Late 1990s to early 2010s: R-134a (HFC-134a) became the standard refrigerant for most new Ford vehicles as R‑12 was phased out due to environmental concerns.
- Mid-2010s onward: R-1234yf (HFO-1234yf) was introduced and gradually became the standard for new Ford models to meet low-GWP regulations.
- Present: Most new Ford vehicles use R-1234yf, with R-134a still present only in some older stock or specific markets where 1234yf uptake was slower.
For owners and technicians, the key takeaway is to verify the refrigerant specified for each vehicle model and year. Using the incorrect refrigerant can damage the system or void warranties.
Why Ford switched to 1234yf
The move to R-1234yf reflects global regulatory efforts to reduce the climate impact of vehicle air conditioning. R-1234yf has a much lower global warming potential (GWP) than R-134a, making it a preferred choice for new cars under evolving environmental rules in regions like North America, Europe, and parts of Asia-Pacific.
Regulatory backdrop
Regulations such as the EU F-Gas rules and other international initiatives pushed manufacturers toward lower‑GWP refrigerants. Ford, like many automakers, adopted R-1234yf to align with these standards and to future‑proof its new-vehicle refrigerant systems.
Service considerations
Repair shops and technicians must use the correct refrigerant for each Ford model/year and evacuate and recover the system properly. Mixing refrigerants or using the wrong oil type can lead to poor cooling performance and potential compressor damage.
Summary
Ford’s current standard refrigerant in most new vehicles is R-1234yf, adopted in the mid‑2010s to meet environmental regulations and reduce GWP. Older Ford models may still require R-134a, and very old vehicles might have used R-12 in eras before these changes. Always verify the correct refrigerant for a specific vehicle by checking the service label or the owner’s manual, especially when servicing or refilling the AC system. As regulations continue to evolve, the industry trend remains toward lower-GWP refrigerants like 1234yf for Ford’s contemporary lineup.
How do I know if my AC is 410A or R22?
Device such as this one right. Here that's an R22 thermostatic expansion valve. And here's an R410A thermostatic expansion valve. But now not only do you have to determine if it's R22 or R410A.
Is R-1234YF refrigerant being discontinued?
It is anticipated that by 2025 all vehicles will contain 1234YF. Don't fret, however, if your current vehicle requires 134a. Though 134a is not compatible with 1234YF and is expected to be phased out, it is still in production and will continue as long as there is a demand for repair of older vehicles.
Is R-1234YF the same as R-134a?
No, R1234yf is not the same as R134a; they are different refrigerants with distinct chemical compositions and environmental impacts. R134a is being phased out because of its high global warming potential (GWP), while R1234yf is a newer, more environmentally friendly alternative with a much lower GWP. They are not interchangeable, and using the wrong one can damage the vehicle's air conditioning system due to different chemical properties, pressures, and fittings.
You can watch this video to learn the differences between R134a and R1234yf systems: 55sAC PROYouTube · Mar 19, 2025
Key differences
| Feature | R134a | R1234yf |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Impact | High GWP (Global Warming Potential) | Very low GWP (less than 1) |
| Chemical Composition | A hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) | A hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) |
| Flammability | Non-flammable | Mildly flammable (A2L) |
| Vehicle Application | Used in older vehicle models | Used in most new vehicles |
| Physical Connectors | Different fittings from R1234yf | Different fittings from R134a |
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Why they can't be interchanged
- System damage: Using R134a in an R1234yf system can cause catastrophic damage. The systems are designed with different thermodynamic properties and components, such as expansion valves.
- Preventative design: To prevent accidental mixing, vehicles using R1234yf have unique, specific service ports and quick-release connectors that only accept the correct equipment.
- Legal restrictions: It is illegal to put R134a into a system designed for R1234yf, as it violates the Clean Air Act.
What type of refrigerant does Ford use?
refrigerant R-134a
WARNING: The air conditioning refrigerant system contains refrigerant R-134a under high pressure. Opening the air conditioning refrigerant system can cause personal injury. Have the air conditioning refrigerant system serviced only by qualified personnel. Motorcraft Penetrating and Lock Lubricant (U.S.)
