When did Honda start using 1234yf?
Honda began using 1234yf in its new vehicles in the mid-2010s, with Europe taking the lead around 2014 and a broader rollout in North America by 2015–2016. By the late 2010s, 1234yf had become standard on most new Honda cars in major markets.
Context and regulatory backdrop
The shift to 1234yf is driven by environmental regulations aimed at reducing the global warming potential (GWP) of automotive air conditioning systems. 1234yf (R-1234yf) has a much lower GWP than the older R-134a refrigerant, and many regions, including Europe, mandated a move to 1234yf for new vehicles on sale after the mid-2010s. Automakers, including Honda, adapted their supply chains, training, and service equipment accordingly. Not all markets transition at the same pace, and some older or entry-level models may still rely on 134a in certain regions or conditions.
Europe: early adopters
Honda began introducing 1234yf in European-market models as part of the regulatory shift around 2014. This aligned Honda with the continent’s push to replace higher-GWP refrigerants in new cars and to standardize servicing requirements across models sold in Europe.
North America: gradual rollout
In the United States and Canada, the adoption started with model-year updates around 2015–2016 for select Honda vehicles, followed by broader implementation across more models in subsequent years as parts, training, and dealer capabilities scaled up.
Current status across Honda's lineup
Today, 1234yf is standard on most new Honda models in major markets. A small number of older models or budget-focused variants may still use R-134a, particularly in regions with slower regulatory changes or where service infrastructure has not fully shifted. If you’re unsure which refrigerant your Honda uses, check the vehicle’s service manual or a label on the A/C system, or ask a Honda dealer or ASE-certified technician.
Key milestones in Honda's adoption timeline:
- 2014: 1234yf begins appearing in European-market new models to comply with EU regulations.
- 2015–2016: Select North American Honda models adopt 1234yf in model-year updates.
- Late 2010s: 1234yf becomes standard on most new Honda vehicles in major markets.
Conclusion: The transition to 1234yf was a phased, regulation-driven process that began in Europe around 2014 and expanded to North America by mid-decade, eventually becoming the norm on Honda’s newer cars in the following years.
What this means for Honda owners and service
If you own a Honda and need refrigerant service, confirm the refrigerant type for your specific model and year. Using the correct refrigerant ensures optimal cooling performance and preserves warranty coverage. A dealer or an ASE-certified technician can verify the system and provide proper service.
Summary
Honda started using 1234yf in the mid-2010s, with Europe leading the adoption around 2014 and a broader rollout in North America by 2015–2016. By the late 2010s, 1234yf had become standard on most new Honda vehicles in major markets, reflecting regulatory pressure to reduce refrigerant GWPs and industry-wide preparation for the transition.
What year do cars use R-1234YF refrigerant?
When was the 1234YF introduced? The new Freon that is being used in vehicles was first introduced in 2013. Only a few vehicles had 1234yf in them. There are still vehicles out there that use 134a Freon.
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.
When did Honda switch to R-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. Don't fret, however, if your current vehicle requires 134a.
When did R-1234YF replace R-134a?
During the next several years, we expect to see R-1234yf adoption rates soar in the US. In response to the EPA's Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP), as of the 2021 model year, US vehicles will no longer be permitted to use R-134a.
