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What type of freon does a 2012 Dodge Journey take?

The 2012 Dodge Journey uses R-134a refrigerant, also known as Freon R-134a, in its air conditioning system. This is the standard refrigerant used in most vehicles manufactured after the mid-1990s.


Detailed Explanation


The Dodge Journey is a mid-size crossover SUV that was first introduced in 2008. For the 2012 model year, the Journey continued to use the R-134a refrigerant in its air conditioning (A/C) system. R-134a has been the predominant refrigerant used in automotive A/C systems since it replaced the older R-12 (Freon) in the early 1990s.


The switch to R-134a was mandated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) due to concerns about the environmental impact of R-12, which was found to be harmful to the ozone layer. R-134a is a more environmentally friendly alternative that does not deplete the ozone.


All Dodge Journeys, including the 2012 model, are equipped with a R-134a-based A/C system. The refrigerant charge capacity for a 2012 Dodge Journey is typically around 24-28 ounces (0.7-0.8 kg) of R-134a.


Servicing the A/C System


When servicing the A/C system on a 2012 Dodge Journey, it's important to use the correct type and amount of refrigerant. Using the wrong refrigerant or overfilling the system can cause damage to the compressor and other components.



  • Only use R-134a refrigerant, as specified by the manufacturer.

  • Refer to the owner's manual or service information for the proper refrigerant charge capacity.

  • Have the system serviced by a qualified technician who can properly evacuate, recharge, and test the A/C system.


Proper maintenance of the A/C system is essential to ensure it continues to function effectively and efficiently in your 2012 Dodge Journey.

Can I use R134a instead of R1234yf refrigerant?


REPLACEMENT OF R1234YF WITH R134A
The refrigerant R134a in an automobile air-conditioning system provided for R1234yf is considered an illegal substance according to Directive 2006/40/EC. This is punishable by a fine and in particularly blatant cases even by imprisonment.



Can you replace R-134a with R-1234yf?


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 kind of refrigerant does a Dodge Journey take?


R134a



What year did vehicles start using R-134a?


Automobile manufacturers began to transition to the non-ozone depleting refrigerant, HFC-134a, with 1992 model year vehicles. By the 1995 model year, all new vehicles sold in the United States with air conditioners used HFC-134a 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.



Can I use R-134a instead of R-1234yf refrigerant?


REPLACEMENT OF R1234YF WITH R134A
The refrigerant R134a in an automobile air-conditioning system provided for R1234yf is considered an illegal substance according to Directive 2006/40/EC. This is punishable by a fine and in particularly blatant cases even by imprisonment.



How do I know what type of Freon I need?


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 Freon does a 2012 Dodge Charger take?


R134a Freon: Vehicles Manufactured Between 1995 and 2021.



What happens if you put R22 in a 134a system?


No, the compressor will fail. These two refrigerants have very different properties. One of R22 and R134a is high pressure and the other is low pressure. They don't mix chemically and don't have the same boiling point, leading to inefficiencies and eventual compressor failure.



Does it matter what Freon I put in my car?


Please remember that using the wrong type of refrigerant for your system can create a hazard or cause serious damage so it is very important to get it right. Don't worry though, as AC Avalanche recharge hoses can only work on systems of their respective type, eliminating the risk of using the wrong type.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.