What refrigerant is used in Subarus?
As a seasoned auto service provider, I often get questions about the type of refrigerant used in specific car brands, including Subarus. Understanding the correct refrigerant for your vehicle is crucial for maintaining an efficient air conditioning system. In this article, I’ll break down the refrigerants commonly used in Subaru vehicles and provide some tips for maintaining your car's AC system.
Refrigerants Used in Subaru Vehicles
Subaru vehicles, like most modern cars, use specific types of refrigerants depending on the model year. Here’s a breakdown:
- R-134a: This refrigerant was the standard for most Subaru models manufactured before 2017. It is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerant that replaced the older R-12 due to environmental concerns.
- R-1234yf: Starting around 2017, Subaru began transitioning to R-1234yf refrigerant in compliance with global environmental regulations. This refrigerant has a much lower global warming potential (GWP) compared to R-134a, making it a more eco-friendly option.
To determine the exact refrigerant used in your Subaru, you can check the label under the hood of your car. This label typically provides details about the type of refrigerant and the required charge amount.
Why the Transition to R-1234yf?
The shift from R-134a to R-1234yf was driven by environmental concerns. R-1234yf has a significantly lower GWP, aligning with international efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. While R-1234yf is more expensive than R-134a, its environmental benefits and compliance with regulations make it the preferred choice for newer vehicles.
Tips for Maintaining Your Subaru's AC System
Proper maintenance of your car's air conditioning system ensures optimal performance and longevity. Here are some tips:
- Regular Inspections: Have your AC system inspected annually to check for leaks or other issues.
- Use the Correct Refrigerant: Always use the refrigerant specified for your Subaru model to avoid damage to the system.
- Run the AC Regularly: Even during colder months, running the AC for a few minutes helps keep the system lubricated and prevents seals from drying out.
- Seek Professional Help: If you notice reduced cooling performance or unusual noises, consult a professional auto service provider to diagnose and fix the issue.
Conclusion
Knowing the correct refrigerant for your Subaru is essential for maintaining an efficient and environmentally friendly air conditioning system. Whether your vehicle uses R-134a or the newer R-1234yf, proper maintenance and timely servicing can keep your AC running smoothly for years to come. If you have any questions or need assistance with your Subaru's AC system, feel free to reach out to us at Kevin's Autos for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of Freon does a 2017 SUBARU take?
HFO-1234yf
2017 Outback and Legacy models will be the first Subaru models to be equipped with the new HFO-1234yf air conditioning refrigerant.
What vehicles use R-134a refrigerant?
In most cars that are on the road today, R134a refrigerant makes the A/C system blow cold on hot days. Selected for its low flammability and safety, as well as because it's kinder to the environment, almost every car built since 1994 is equipped with R134 refrigerant.
What kind of refrigerant does a 2019 Subaru Forester take?
1234YF
The correct refrigerant for this system is 1234YF. If you have any more questions on a different topic in the future, you can open a new question atjustanswer.
Can you mix synthetic 134a with regular 134a?
Mixed refrigerants can cause increased system pressures and temperatures changing them for the worse. This can result in ineffective compressor cooling and possible compressor damage, ineffective cooling, and metering device malfunction. Different types of refrigerants are not meant to be mixed.
What AC refrigerant does SUBARU use?
Subaru refrigerant filling quantities R134a and 1234yf
| Model | Year of manufacture | Freon |
|---|---|---|
| Subaru Outback | 2003 - 2009 | R134a |
| Subaru Outback (BM/BR) | 2009.09 - | R134a |
| Subaru Outback (BS) | 2015 - | R1234yf |
| Subaru SVX | 1994 - 1997 | R134a |
Can I use R-1234yf in a R-134a system?
Refrigerant types are not to be mixed. The usage of dyes and sealants is discouraged. Dyes and sealants are considered contaminants and will reduce the performance and longevity of the lubricant. Use refrigerant sniffers for leak detection and repair leaking equipment per SAE and EPA guidelines.
What kind of refrigerant does a 2016 Subaru Forester take?
R-134a
The air conditioning system on all modern vehicles is charged with R-134a, while some older vehicles still use R-12 freon. The refrigerant changes between a liquid and gas state, absorbing heat from inside the cabin.
How much does it cost to recharge a Subaru AC?
Subaru Outback AC Recharge Cost by Year
The average cost for a Subaru Outback AC Recharge is between $189 and $221 but can vary from car to car.
Can you replace R134a with R1234yf?
While R-1234yf could be the perfect replacement for R-134a, there is one major challenge with this new technology. The R-1234yf is much more reactive than R-134a. On the positive side, this higher reactivity is why R-1234yf is so much more friendly to the environment.
What year did cars switch to R134a?
The use of R-12 in new vehicles was banned in the United States in 1994 due to its ozone-depleting properties. However, the process of phasing out R-12 began in the late 1980s, and many automakers had already begun using the replacement refrigerant R-134a in their vehicles by the early 1990s.
