What Type of Refrigerant Does My Car’s AC Use?

July 3, 2025

When your car’s air conditioning starts blowing warm air, low refrigerant could be the issue—but not all vehicles use the same type of refrigerant. At Joe’s Slinger Service we help drivers throughout Washington County and surrounding areas stay cool by identifying and servicing the right AC refrigerant for their vehicle.


Here’s a quick breakdown:


  • R-134a: This is the most common refrigerant used in vehicles built from 1995 through the early 2010s. Many cars and trucks still on the road today use R-134a.


  • R-1234yf: Starting around 2015, manufacturers began using this more environmentally friendly refrigerant. It requires special equipment to service.


  • R-12 (Freon): If your vehicle is a classic made before 1995, it may use R-12. This refrigerant is now banned due to environmental regulations, and vehicles using it need a retrofit to a newer system.


To find out what your vehicle uses, check the under-hood label or stop by our shop. Our technicians can quickly identify your refrigerant type and recharge your AC system using the correct formula.


At Joe’s Slinger Service, we proudly serve customers from Washington County, and surrounding areas. Whether your AC needs a recharge, diagnosis, or full repair, our team is ready to help you beat the Wisconsin heat.


Need your car’s AC looked at?

Call us and swing by the shop. We’ll get you cooled down fast.


Two boxes of National Automotive 134a refrigerant. One blue, one white. | Joe's Slinger Service

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