What type of refrigerant does Ford use?
When it comes to maintaining your Ford vehicle's air conditioning system, understanding the type of refrigerant it uses is crucial. Refrigerants are the lifeblood of your car's A/C system, ensuring you stay cool during those hot summer drives. Over the years, Ford has transitioned to using more environmentally friendly refrigerants, aligning with global standards and regulations. Let’s dive into the specifics of what refrigerants Ford vehicles use and why it matters.
The Evolution of Refrigerants in Ford Vehicles
Ford, like many other automakers, has adapted its refrigerant choices over time to meet environmental regulations and improve efficiency. Here’s a brief overview of the evolution:
- R-12 (Freon): In older Ford models (pre-1994), R-12 was the standard refrigerant. However, due to its harmful effects on the ozone layer, it was phased out in the mid-1990s.
- R-134a: From 1994 onwards, Ford transitioned to R-134a, a more environmentally friendly option compared to R-12. This refrigerant became the industry standard for many years.
- R-1234yf: Starting around 2013, Ford began using R-1234yf in newer models. This refrigerant has a significantly lower global warming potential (GWP) than R-134a, making it a more sustainable choice.
Which Refrigerant Does Your Ford Use?
The type of refrigerant your Ford vehicle uses depends on its model year and production specifications. Here’s a quick guide:
- Pre-1994 Models: Likely use R-12. If your vehicle still uses this refrigerant, it may require retrofitting to accommodate newer refrigerants, as R-12 is no longer widely available.
- 1994 to Early 2010s Models: Most Ford vehicles from this period use R-134a. This refrigerant is still commonly available and widely used in many vehicles.
- 2013 and Newer Models: Many newer Ford models use R-1234yf. This refrigerant is more environmentally friendly and complies with modern regulations.
Why Does the Type of Refrigerant Matter?
Using the correct refrigerant is essential for the proper functioning of your vehicle’s air conditioning system. Here’s why:
- System Compatibility: Each refrigerant type requires specific components, such as compressors and hoses, designed to handle its properties.
- Environmental Impact: Modern refrigerants like R-1234yf are designed to minimize environmental harm, reducing your vehicle’s carbon footprint.
- Performance: The right refrigerant ensures optimal cooling performance, keeping you comfortable in all weather conditions.
How to Check Your Ford’s Refrigerant Type
If you’re unsure about the type of refrigerant your Ford uses, you can check the following:
- Owner’s Manual: The refrigerant type is usually listed in the specifications section of your vehicle’s manual.
- Under the Hood: Look for a sticker on the A/C system components or near the radiator. This label typically indicates the refrigerant type and charge amount.
- Consult a Professional: If you’re still uncertain, bring your vehicle to a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin’s Autos. Our experienced technicians can identify the refrigerant type and ensure your A/C system is in top shape.
Conclusion
Understanding the type of refrigerant your Ford vehicle uses is essential for maintaining its air conditioning system and ensuring compliance with environmental standards. Whether your car uses R-134a or the newer R-1234yf, proper maintenance and timely servicing are key to keeping your A/C running smoothly. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Kevin’s Autos for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
When did cars stop using R-134a?
In the United States, vehicles produced after 2021 no longer contain R-134A in the air conditioning system. In other parts of the world, including the United States, there are restrictions around using 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane. Specifically, in California, retailers can deny selling customers canned R-134a.
Is it illegal to put 134a in a 1234yf system?
Still, the answer is an emphatic, “No.” Not only would a retrofit of this type negate the environmental benefits of R-1234yf, but it would also be a violation of Federal Law under Section 203 of the Clean Air Act: “tampering” with a vehicle's emissions control device.
What refrigerant is used by Ford?
WARNING: The air conditioning refrigerant system contains refrigerant R-134a under high pressure. Opening the air conditioning refrigerant system can cause personal injury.
What happens if I put R134a in a R1234yf car?
The expansion valve setting for R-1234yf refrigerant is different compared to R-134a. Changing from R-1234yf to R-134a refrigerant may result in a system with incorrect refrigerant flow and heat exchanger mal-distribution which may cause a loss of cooling performance or durability concerns.
What year did Ford start using 134a refrigerant?
1 All 1999 - 2016 Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles are equipped with R-134a refrigerant. 2 The refrigerant usage applies to all models of a vehicle unless otherwise specified.
What Ford vehicles use 1234yf?
Ford refrigerant filling quantities R134a and 1234yf
| Model | Year of manufacture | Freon |
|---|---|---|
| Ford S-Max 1.5i + 2.0i EcoBoost | 06.2016 - | R1234yf |
| Ford S-Max 2.0TDCI | 06.2016 - | R1234yf |
| Ford S-Max 2.0TDCI with rear air conditioning | 06.2016 - | R1234yf |
| Ford Transit 2.3i/2.0TDCi | 2001 - 2005 | R134a |
Can I use R1234yf instead of R134a?
Internal heat exchanger for R1234yf refrigerant (photo: NRF) As you can see from the above description, R134a and R1234yf refrigerants are not completely identical and their substitution will always result in faster degradation of the A/C system and eventually lead to costly repairs.
When was R134a banned?
The AIM Act is a Federal nationwide rule phasing out the use of global warming materials. As part of that effort, EPA is now banning the use of 134a in aerosol products as of 1/1/2025. There are excepted products that are allowed to use 134a until 1/1/2028.
What year did they 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.
What vehicles use R134a 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.
