1.0 Air Conditioner Refrigerant: Freon(R)

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The refrigerant Freon(R) R12 is used in most BMW automobiles with an air conditioner up through the 1992 model year. It has a boiling point of --29.8°C (sea level), at which the refrigerant is transformed from a liquid into a gaseous state. This boiling point, however, is not constant. It is displaced in the direction of higher temperatures as pressure increases.

Freon(R) R12 complies with the requirements expected of a safety refrigerant. Freon(R) is not combustible and does not turn into an explosive mixture with air. It is also odorless and non-toxic. Conformance with certain safety regulations is essential to the handling of refrigeration systems.

There are currently no BMW-approved alternative refrigerants to R12.

See S.I. Bulletin B 64 02 92 (3495).