Understanding the Difference Between R-134A and R-1234YF in Car A/C: What Marion Drivers Need to Know

If your car’s air conditioning isn’t blowing as cold as it used to, there’s a good chance the refrigerant (commonly called “freon”) might need attention. At PMR Automotive, we often hear questions from customers in Marion, IL, about their freon, mostly commonly “What kind of freon does my car need?” or “What’s the difference between R-134A and R-1234YF?” Today, we’re breaking it all down in a way that’s easy to understand—no technical background required.

What Is Freon, and Why Does It Matter?

Freon is the refrigerant your car’s A/C system uses to create that refreshing cold air we all crave in southern Illinois summers. It circulates through the system, absorbing heat from inside your vehicle and releasing it outside, so your cabin stays cool.

Over the years, different types of refrigerant have been used in cars, mainly due to environmental concerns. The two most common types you’ll hear about today are R-134A and R-1234YF.

R-134A: The Long-Time Standard

R-134A (often called "134A") has been the go-to refrigerant in most vehicles built from the mid-1990s through the mid-2010s. It replaced the older R-12 (which was phased out because of its harmful effects on the ozone layer).

134A works well and is still used in many vehicles today. However, it’s not the most environmentally friendly option—while it doesn’t harm the ozone layer like R-12, it does contribute to global warming if released into the air through things such as leaking hoses, compressors, condensers, and more.

Enter R-1234YF: The Eco-Friendly Upgrade

Starting around 2013, automakers began switching to R-1234YF, a next-generation refrigerant designed to have a much lower impact on the environment. By 2021, nearly all new vehicles sold in the U.S. came equipped with 1234YF systems.

What makes 1234YF different?

• Environmentally Safer: It has a global warming potential (GWP) that’s 99.7% lower than 134A.

• Tighter Systems: It operates at similar pressures as 134A but requires more precise equipment due to stricter leak prevention.

• Cost and Equipment: 1234YF refrigerant and the tools required to service it are more expensive, but they’re necessary to meet federal environmental guidelines.

How Do You Know Which Freon Your Car Uses?

The easiest way to find out? Look under your hood. Most vehicles have a sticker near the front of the engine compartment that lists the type of refrigerant used. You can also check your owner’s manual—or just bring your vehicle to PMR Automotive, and we’ll help you identify it.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

• Vehicles built before 2013: Most likely use R-134A.

• Vehicles built from 2013 to 2020: Could use either, depending on the manufacturer (even some same vehicle makes and models of the same year can take different freons, so sticker identification is necessary).

• Vehicles built after 2021: Almost all use R-1234YF.

Why the Right A/C Service Matters

Servicing modern A/C systems is not like it used to be. Today’s systems require the right refrigerant, the correct equipment, and trained technicians who understand the technology. At PMR Automotive in Marion, IL, we have the tools and expertise to handle both R-134A and R-1234YF systems—something not every shop can say.

Whether your car needs a simple recharge and leak check, or full system repair, we’ve got you covered. And because we serve the Marion community, we know just how important reliable air conditioning is during the hot summer months in southern Illinois.

Trust Your Car to PMR Automotive, Your Expert Auto A/C Repair in Marion, IL

When it comes to car A/C repair near Marion, IL, PMR Automotive is the shop drivers trust. We invest in state-of-the-art equipment and ongoing technician training to stay ahead of the curve—because your comfort and safety matter.

If your car’s A/C isn’t blowing cold, don’t sweat it. Call 618-998-9010 or stop by PMR Automotive, one block east of Ray Fosse Park, and let us take a look. We’ll diagnose the problem, explain your options, and get you back on the road in cool comfort.