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

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Nissan Pathfinder. 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 compressor failure is likely to occur. Refer "CONTAMINATED REFRIGERANT ". To determine the purity of HFC-134a (R-134a) in the vehicle and recovery tank, use refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment and refrigerant identifier.
Use only specified oil for the HFC-134a (R-134a) A/C system and HFC-134a (R-134a) components. If oil other than that specified is used, compressor failure is likely to occur.
The specified HFC-134a (R-134a) oil 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 oil from a sealed container. Immediately reseal containers of oil. Without proper sealing, oil will become moisture saturated and should not be used.
- Avoid breathing A/C refrigerant and oil vapor or mist. Exposure may irritate eyes, nose and throat. Remove HFC-134a (R-134a) from the A/C system using certified service equipment meeting requirements of SAE J2210 [HFC-134a (R-134a) recycling equipment], or SAE J2209 [HFC-134a (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 oil manufacturers.
- Do not allow the refrigerant oil to come in contact with styrofoam parts. Damage may result.