Fluorescent Leak Detection Method

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Vibe. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Tools Required

J 41447 R-134a A/C Tracer Dye
J 41459 R-134a A/C Tracer Dye Injector
J 28428-E High Intensity Black Light

Important: General Motors passenger cars are now manufactured with fluorescent dye installed in the A/C system.

The preferred method of leak testing is the use of fluorescent dye. J 41447 is the only dye approved by General Motors. Follow the Fluorescent Dye Injection procedure for vehicles that do not already contain the fluorescent dye.

NOTE: The tracer dye J 41447 was developed for use with the A/C Refrigerant 134a (R-134a) equipped vehicles or with vehicles that have been retrofitted from R-12 to R-134a. Do not use any other tracer dye in the R-134a system. Use of another dye may affect the system reliability and cause premature compressor failure. Use only a 1/4 oz. charge of the dye. Larger amounts may compromise the reliability of the A/C system. After adding the tracer dye, clean the service valves and all affected surfaces of the dye with GM Engine Degreaser GM P/N 1050436 or an equivalent in order to prevent a false diagnosis.

The R-134a refrigerant is different from the R-12 refrigerant that was used in the past.
The R-134a refrigerant may require additional methods for leak detection.
The R-134a molecule is smaller than the R-12 molecule and can leak through smaller openings.
The fluorescent leak detection method will locate smaller leaks.
The R-134a dye takes time to work through the A/C system. Depending on the rate of the leak, the dye may not be visible for 7 days.
The dye mixed with PAG oil remains detectable in the system for 2 years. Larger amounts may compromise the reliability of the system. Use only the 1/4-oz charge of dye.
If you inspect the leak locations with an ultraviolet light, the dye glows yellow and green.
PAG oil is soluble in water. Condensation on the refrigeration lines, or on the evaporator core, may wash the dye off the lines, or off the core. This may make some leaks harder to locate.
Fluorescent dye at the evaporator core drain indicates a core leak.