What refrigerant does the Ford Ranger use?
Most modern Ford Rangers use R-1234yf refrigerant in their air-conditioning systems. However, some older generations and certain regional variants still relied on the older R-134a refrigerant, so the exact type depends on model year and market.
Current refrigerant standard by market
To illustrate how refrigerant choices vary by market and era, here is a regional snapshot of typical usage in recent Rangers. Always verify against your vehicle’s label or manual.
- North America: Newer Rangers built from the mid-2010s onward typically use R-1234yf; earlier models used R-134a.
- Europe and select markets: The shift to R-1234yf generally followed the same timeline in many European markets, with older stock using R-134a.
- Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America: Most recently produced Rangers use R-1234yf, but some late-2010s regional variants may still have been supplied with R-134a depending on local service parts and regulations.
For technicians and owners, the key takeaway is that the refrigerant type must match what the system is designed for; mixing refrigerants or improper charging can damage components and affect warranty coverage.
Historical context and regional variations
Rollout of R-1234yf
Ford and many other automakers began adopting R-1234yf in new vehicles during the mid-2010s to meet evolving environmental and regulatory standards. The Ranger followed this pattern in most markets as production programs updated.
Legacy refrigerant usage
Earlier Ranger generations, especially those produced before the mid-2010s in several regions, commonly used R-134a. Some markets with slower model-year updates may still have older stock that uses 134a until inventories are exhausted.
Service considerations and safety
R-1234yf is mildly flammable (classified as A2L) and requires dedicated service equipment and recovery machines designed for 1234yf. If you’re servicing the system, ensure you’re using the correct refrigerant and oil type, and rely on a qualified automotive technician or service center with proper safety protocols. Do not mix R-1234yf and R-134a in the same system.
Summary
In short: for most current Ford Rangers, the refrigerant is R-1234yf; older Rangers and certain regional variants used R-134a. To be sure, check the under-hood label on your vehicle or consult the owner’s manual, and have the system serviced by a trained technician using the correct refrigerant.
What year did they switch to 1234YF?
R-1234yf was introduced in 2013 when General Motors began using it in some vehicles, with a full conversion for GM in 2018. Other manufacturers like Chrysler, Honda, and Subaru followed in 2017. The refrigerant became mandatory in new vehicles in the U.S. starting January 1, 2021.
- 2013: General Motors introduced R-1234yf in certain 2013 models in the U.S., such as the Cadillac XTS and others.
- 2014: Chrysler began using R-1234yf in models like the 2014 Jeep Cherokee and Chrysler 300.
- 2017: Honda and Subaru started using R-1234yf in their 2017 model year vehicles.
- 2018: General Motors completed its full conversion to R-1234yf for all new vehicles.
- January 1, 2021: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandated that all newly manufactured passenger cars and light-duty trucks must use R-1234yf.
What kind of refrigerant does a Ford Ranger take?
Essential Ford Ranger Refrigerants
Certified A/C Pro R-134a PAG 46 Refrigerant Oil with ICE 32. This product contains approximately 8 fluid ounces of PAG refrigerant oil with ICE32. Low viscosity PAG oil for R-134a auto A/C systems; ISO 46 viscosity.
What kind of Freon does a 2019 Ford Ranger take?
To recharge your Ford Ranger 2019's AC, first locate the low-pressure service port on the refrigerant line. Use a proper R-134a refrigerant can with a gauge hose.
Can I use r134a instead of 1234YF?
No, you should not use R134a instead of R1234yf because it can cause damage to the AC system and may be against the law. While some people have used adapters to convert a system, the two refrigerants have different properties, such as oil and expansion valve settings, which can lead to performance issues, system wear, and potential failure. Always use the refrigerant specified by the vehicle manufacturer to avoid costly damage and to ensure the system works correctly.
Why you shouldn't substitute R134a for R1234yf
- Different system requirements: R1234yf and R134a have different physical properties and require different components, like expansion valves, and specific oils.
- Potential for damage: Using the wrong refrigerant can lead to a loss of cooling performance, evaporator freezing, or even catastrophic damage to the AC compressor and other parts.
- Legal implications: Replacing R1234yf with R134a is a violation of federal law under the Clean Air Act.
- Contamination risk: The service fittings are different to prevent accidental mixing of the two refrigerants. If you mix them, you can contaminate an entire R1234yf supply, leading to costly repairs for both your vehicle and the service shop.
How to safely service your AC
- Check your vehicle's label: The correct refrigerant type is listed on a label under the hood.
- Use the correct refrigerant: Always purchase and use the refrigerant specified by the manufacturer.
- Seek professional help: If your system needs a recharge, take it to a qualified mechanic who has the correct equipment and knowledge to handle the specific refrigerant your vehicle requires.
