How to recharge your car A/C with R-1234yf and A/C Pro

This guide shows you how to top up a car air conditioning system that uses R-1234yf refrigerant with an A/C Pro can and hose. It suits beginners doing a simple DIY recharge on a compatible vehicle. Check the under-hood sticker first, because using the wrong refrigerant can damage the system.

How to Recharge R-1234yf A/C with A/C Pro | Step-by-Step DIY #r1234yf #acproblems #cartok, by Mech.&Tech. on YouTube. 1 min 34 s.

Video length
1 min 34 s
Time to do it
20 minutes
Difficulty
Medium
Steps
8

What you need

Steps

  1. Open the hood and find the sticker that lists the refrigerant type. Use only R-1234yf if that is what the label says. Older cars often use R-134a, which needs a different kit.

  2. Park in the shade if you can and start the engine. Set the A/C to MAX A/C, the coldest temperature, the highest fan speed and recirculation on.

  3. Find the low-pressure service port on the larger aluminum A/C line. Its cap is usually marked L. Never connect to the high-pressure port.

  4. Remove the port cap and snap the A/C Pro hose onto the low-pressure port. It should only fit that port.

  5. Read the gauge before adding anything. If the reading is in the low range, you can add refrigerant.

  6. Squeeze the trigger in short bursts while gently rotating or shaking the can. Let the pressure settle between bursts and watch the gauge.

  7. Stop when the gauge reaches the recommended range for the outside temperature. Do not overfill the system.

  8. Disconnect the hose and put the service port cap back on tightly. Turn off the engine and check that the air blows cold.

Tips and common mistakes

Adding too much refrigerant can raise vent temperatures and stress the compressor, so stop at the top of the range.

Keep the can upright and never turn it upside down, or liquid refrigerant can enter the system.

If the gauge stays low after a full can, you likely have a leak and should see a mechanic.

Wear gloves and safety glasses, since refrigerant and escaping gas are very cold.

Questions

How do I know if my car uses R-1234yf or R-134a?

Check the sticker under the hood or the owner's manual. The two refrigerants use different fittings and cannot be mixed.

Can I recharge the A/C without running the engine?

No. The compressor needs to run so the system pulls in refrigerant, so keep the engine and A/C on during the recharge.

What if the pressure does not rise after adding refrigerant?

Stop adding and look for a leak or a faulty compressor. A system that will not hold pressure needs a professional repair.

This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.

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