Refrigerant System Leaks: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: R-134a service equipment or vehicle A/C system should not be pressure tested or leak tested with compressed air. Mixture of air and R-134a can be combustible at elevated pressures. These mixtures are potentially dangerous and may result in fire or explosion causing property damage, personal injury or death.

Avoid breathing A/C refrigerant and lubricant vapor or mist. Exposure may irritate eyes, nose and throat. Use only approved service equipment meeting SAE requirements to discharge R-134a system. If accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate work area before resuming service.

If the A/C system is not cooling properly, determine if the refrigerant system is fully charged with R-134a. This is accomplished by performing a system Charge Level-Check or Fill. If while performing this test A/C liquid line pressure is less than 345 kPa (50 psi) proceed to SYSTEM EMPTY procedure. If liquid line pressure is greater than 345 kPa (50 psi) proceed to SYSTEM LOW procedure. If the refrigerant system is empty or low in refrigerant charge, a leak at any line fitting or component seal is likely. A review of the fittings, lines and components for oily residue is an indication of the leak location. To detect a leak in the refrigerant system, perform one of the following procedures as indicated by the symptoms.