Refrigerant: Description and Operation

PURPOSE
Like the coolant in the engine cooling system, the refrigerant is the substance in the air conditioning system that absorbs, carries, and then releases heat. Although various substances are used as refrigerants in other types of refrigeration systems, some automotive air conditioning systems use a type called Refrigerant-12 (R-12).

This vehicle uses Refrigerant-134a (R-134a). It is a non-toxic1 non-flammable, clear, colorless liquefied gas.

While the R-134a A/C system is very similar to an, R-12 A/C system, the differences in the refrigerant, lubricants, and service equipment are important.

NOTICE:R-134a refrigerant is not compatible with R-12 refrigerant in an air conditioning system. R-12 in a R-134a system will cause compressor failure, refrigerant oil sludge or poor air conditioning system performance.

Refrigerant-134a carries a charge of a special lubricant called polyalkaline glycol (PAG) refrigerant oil. GM (PAG) refrigerant oil has a slight blue tint. The oil is hydroscopic (absorbs water from the atmosphere). Store it in closed containers.