What refrigerant is used in newer vehicles?

In modern cars, the refrigerant most commonly used today is R-1234yf, chosen for its low global warming potential. A smaller number of models and regions still experiment with CO2-based systems (R-744), while R-134a has largely been phased out for new passenger cars.

The standard refrigerant in new cars

The automotive industry has shifted away from older refrigerants toward ones with lower environmental impact. Here is a concise look at the current landscape and why the change occurred:

Before listing the main refrigerants you’ll encounter in new vehicles, it’s helpful to understand the key distinctions—environmental footprint, flammability, and service requirements:

• R-1234yf: The dominant refrigerant for new passenger cars since the mid-2010s. It has a very low global warming potential (GWP around 4) but is mildly flammable (A2L), requiring protected handling and compatible service equipment.


• R-134a: Was the standard for many vehicles before the switch to low-GWP options. It carries a higher GWP (about 1430) and is being phased out for new cars in favor of lower-GWP refrigerants, though it remains in older fleets.


• R-744 (CO2): Used in a limited set of models and regions as a transcritical system. It has an ultra-low GWP (1) and avoids hydrofluorocarbon-related issues, but it requires different circuit design and is not yet the default in the mass market.

In practice, R-1234yf is now the standard for most new vehicles, with R-744 appearing in a niche of models and markets, and R-134a largely reserved for older vehicles or specialized equipment.

Regional variations and exceptions

Regulatory timelines and regional automotive practices influence which refrigerants are used where. While many regions have converged on 1234yf for new cars, there are exceptions and transitional paths that keep older or niche systems in play.

• In Europe and North America, new light-duty vehicles predominantly use R-1234yf, driven by environmental regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.


• R-744 (CO2) systems appear in a limited subset of vehicles, often in specific climate-control configurations or higher-end models, and in some commercial applications.


• R-134a remains common in older vehicles and certain non-road equipment; retrofitting a system from 134a to 1234yf is a technical process that requires professional assessment and proper materials.

For drivers and technicians, this landscape means different service practices, safety considerations, and certification requirements depending on the refrigerant in a vehicle’s A/C system.

Implications for drivers and technicians

Understanding the refrigerant landscape helps vehicle owners know what to expect during service, as well as the safety and regulatory requirements technicians must follow.

1. Use the correct service equipment and refrigerant for the vehicle’s system. Mixing refrigerants is not permitted and can damage components.


2. Be aware that R-1234yf is mildly flammable (A2L). Follow manufacturer guidelines and local safety regulations when handling or servicing these systems.


3. R-1234yf typically uses POE oil, which differs from oils used with some older 134a systems. Oil compatibility is crucial during servicing or retrofitting.


4. Adhere to environmental and regulatory requirements for refrigerant recovery, recycling, and disposal, which vary by country and region.

In short, the shift to low-GWP refrigerants has become the norm for new vehicles, with CO2-based systems present in a minority of models and markets. Consumers should rely on trained technicians who use the right tools and follow safety and environmental guidelines.

Summary

The prevailing refrigerant for new cars today is R-1234yf, offering far lower global warming potential than its predecessor. CO2-based systems (R-744) appear in a select group of models and markets, while R-134a is largely phased out for new production but remains in older fleets. The transition reflects regulatory pressure to reduce emissions, together with advances in climate-control technology. For drivers, this means professional maintenance with refrigerants appropriate to each vehicle and adherence to safety and environmental standards.

Do all new cars use 1234YF refrigerant?

As of 2021, ALL vehicles sold in the US are now equipped with 1234YF Freon in the Air Conditioning System. If you have a vehicle that needs Air Conditioning repairs, we at Automotive Blessings have the machine and training to accurately repair the system.

What year did GM switch to 1234YF?

General Motors began introducing vehicles to the market utilizing this new system in 2013 with full conversion in 2018. Chrysler, Honda, and Subaru models followed in 2017. It is anticipated that by 2025 all vehicles will contain 1234YF.

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.

Can I replace 1234YF with 134a?

No, you should not use R134a in an R1234yf system because the refrigerants are chemically different, have different pressures and oil requirements, and the service ports have different fittings. Using the wrong refrigerant can damage the AC system and its components, and it may be a violation of regulations. While some have reportedly performed a conversion by fully evacuating the system and using an adapter, this is not recommended by professionals due to the risk of system damage and legal issues. 
Reasons to avoid using R134a in an R1234yf system

• Different fittings: R1234yf systems have unique service ports and hose connections to prevent the use of older refrigerants like R134a, which have smaller fittings. 
• Chemical incompatibility: The refrigerants are chemically different and are not meant to be mixed. Mixing them can lead to system contamination and failure. 
• Oil incompatibility: R1234yf systems require specific oils (like POE), while R134a systems typically use PAG oil. The two are not compatible and mixing them can damage the compressor. 
• Pressure differences: The systems are designed to operate at different pressures. Using R134a in an R1234yf system can cause excessive pressure and damage components. 
• Reduced performance: Even if the system doesn't immediately fail, performance is likely to be inefficient, and the system may encounter issues like evaporator freezing. 
• Legal and warranty issues: Tampering with an emissions-controlled device by using the wrong refrigerant is a violation of the Clean Air Act. This could also void your vehicle's warranty. 

This video explains the difference between R134a and R1234yf refrigerants: 51sAC PROYouTube · Mar 19, 2025
What to do instead

• Always use the refrigerant specified on the vehicle's under-hood label. 
• If your AC system is low on refrigerant, it means there is a leak that needs to be professionally diagnosed and repaired before recharging the system with the correct refrigerant.