R134A gas is common in vehicles manufactured before 2014. All vehicles with air conditioning manufactured since 1st January 2017 include the new R1234YF air conditioning gas, which is more environmentally friendly. Since this date, manufacturers are no longer allowed to use the older R134A air conditioning gas in a bid to reduce global warming, as the old gas is believed to be more damaging to the environment. R1234YF gas was phased in by vehicle manufacturers over time, so vehicles rolling off the production line between 2014 and 2016 could require either gas.
Manufacturers recommend that your air conditioner be recharged every 2 years. As your car or van air conditioner is not checked as part of your MOT test, and recharging the air conditioning is not typically included in your Service, it is important to make sure that you include recharging as part of your regular vehicle maintenance routine.
If your air con is blowing out warm air or only works intermittently, an air con recharge can bring back cold air when you need it most on hot days and can also improve your fuel efficiency, as there is less strain on the system and engine. Unpleasant smells coming from the air vents also suggest that your air con needs some attention.
