Precautions for Working with HFC-134a (R-134a)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Nissan Sentra. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING:

CFC-12 (R-12) refrigerant and HFC-134a (R-134a) refrigerant are not compatible. If the refrigerants are mixed and compressor failure is likely to occur. Refer to "CONTAMINATED REFRIGERANT ". To determine the purity of HFC-134a (R-134a) in the vehicle and recovery tank, use Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling Recharging equipment and Refrigerant Identifier.
Use only specified lubricant for the HFC-134a (R-134a) A/C system and HFC-134a (R-134a) components. If lubricant other than that specified is used, compressor failure is likely to occur.
The specified HFC-134a (R-134a) lubricant rapidly absorbs moisture from the atmosphere. The following handling precautions must be observed:
- When removing refrigerant components from a vehicle, Immediately cap (seal) the component to minimize the entry of moisture from the atmosphere.
- When installing refrigerant components to a vehicle, do not remove the caps (unseal) until just before connecting the components. Connect all refrigerant loop components as quickly as possible to minimize the entry of moisture into system.
- Only use the specified lubricant from a sealed container. Immediately reseal containers of lubricant. Without proper sealing, lubricant will become moisture saturated and should not be used.
- Avoid breathing A/C refrigerant and lubricant vapor or mist. Exposure may irritate eyes, nose and throat. Remove R-134a from the A/C system, using certified service equipment meeting requirements of SAE J2210 (R-134a recycling equipment), or J2209 (R-134a recovery equipment). If accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate work area before resuming service. Additional health and safety information may be obtained from refrigerant and lubricant manufacturers.
- Do not allow A/C lubricant to come In contact with styrofoam parts. Damage may result.