What type of Freon does a 2017 Honda Pilot take?
The 2017 Honda Pilot uses R-134a refrigerant.
The 2017 Pilot’s air-conditioning system was designed around R-134a, the standard automotive refrigerant for most mid-2010s vehicles. While some newer models from other brands shifted toward R-1234yf, this particular Honda model relies on R-134a. Using the wrong refrigerant or mixing different types can damage seals, reduce cooling efficiency, or harm the compressor, so it’s important to confirm the correct type before servicing. If you’re unsure, consult the vehicle’s service manual or a certified automotive technician.
Understanding the refrigerant choice for the 2017 Pilot
Here’s how the refrigerant choice breaks down and why it matters for maintenance and service.
R-134a vs. R-1234yf: key differences
R-134a (tetrafluoroethane) has been the long-standing standard for many vehicles built before and around 2016–2017. R-1234yf is a newer, lower-GWP alternative adopted by some late-2010s and newer cars. The 2017 Honda Pilot was not built to run on R-1234yf, so service should use R-134a with the appropriate lubricant. Using 1234yf in a 134a system can cause compatibility issues and potential damage.
Lubricant and system considerations
Automotive AC systems that use R-134a typically require PAG oil compatible with 134a. If components are opened or replaced, the oil charge must be reconditioned to the factory specification. Do not mix refrigerants or lubricants from different chemical families, and never introduce refrigerant into a system without proper evacuation and leak testing.
Servicing the 2017 Pilot’s AC system
Before you service the system, it helps to understand the steps and precautions involved.
- Ensure you are using automotive-grade R-134a refrigerant and PAG oil specified for your system.
- Have the system leak-checked and evacuated before charging to avoid trapping air or moisture.
- Replace the receiver/drier and, if applicable, the accumulator when the system is opened for service.
- Charge the system to the exact weight specified in Honda’s service information or the manual for the 2017 Pilot.
- Do not mix R-134a with any other refrigerant type; improper mixing can damage the compressor and seals.
Properly servicing with the correct refrigerant and oil ensures reliable cooling and protects the compressor over the vehicle’s life.
Where to source the right refrigerant
R-134a automotive refrigerant is widely available at auto parts stores and service centers. Look for cans that are specifically labeled for automotive use and ensure they include the correct PAG oil or are part of a kit designed for 134a systems. If you’re unsure about capacities or procedures, a professional HVAC technician can perform a refill using the correct equipment and measurements.
Summary
The 2017 Honda Pilot relies on R-134a refrigerant. When servicing, use the proper 134a refrigerant and compatible PAG lubricant, avoid cross-contamination with 1234yf, have the system evacuated and leak-tested, and follow the manufacturer’s charge specifications. Consulting the owner’s manual or a qualified technician helps ensure a correct, safe recharge and sustained cooling performance.
Does Honda use 1234yf?
Understanding Your Honda's A/C Technology
Many newer Honda models use R-1234yf refrigerant, which provides excellent cooling performance while having significantly lower global warming potential compared to older refrigerant types.
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.
What type of coolant does a 2017 Honda Pilot take?
The correct coolant for a 2017 Honda Pilot is Honda Long Life Antifreeze Coolant Type 2, which is a pre-mixed, 50/50 solution of antifreeze and water. If Honda's Type 2 coolant is unavailable, a compatible non-silicate, long-life coolant is an acceptable temporary replacement, but a full flush and refill with Honda coolant is recommended as soon as possible.
You can watch this video to learn how to change the coolant in a Honda Pilot: 1mFixin ItYouTube · Sep 30, 2019
Details
- Manufacturer Recommended: Honda Long Life Antifreeze Coolant Type 2 is the certified and recommended coolant for the 2017 Honda Pilot.
- Pre-mixed: This is a 50% antifreeze and 50% water pre-mixed coolant, so you should not add extra water or antifreeze to it.
- Color: The genuine Honda coolant is blue.
- Temporary Alternative: If you need a replacement immediately and cannot get Honda coolant, use a high-quality, non-silicate, long-life coolant that is compatible with Asian vehicles and is pre-mixed with 50% water.
- Caution: Do not mix different types of coolant, especially if you are not sure of compatibility. Continued use of a non-Honda coolant can cause corrosion in the cooling system. Flush and refill with the correct Honda Type 2 coolant as soon as possible.
Does my car use R-134a or R-1234yf?
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.
