If you’ve been struggling to get the most out of your air conditioning throughout the summer, it could simply be a case of the system running low on gas. Without gas, the nice cool breeze that you feel as you drive either peters out or doesn’t get going. When this happens, you need to recharge the air con. It’s not a difficult process, and many Range Rover service centres can quickly have your SUV topped up and ready to cool you down.
So, what gas do you need to keep the system working properly and prevent damage to your Range Rover? Well, much depends on the age of your vehicle. Many Range Rovers will rely on R134a to keep the air-con functioning as it should. Models built from 2017 onwards require, by law, the newer R1234yf or HFO1234yf gas to work properly.
Why has air con gas changed?
Over the years, air conditioning gas has evolved in line with the greener focus that businesses and society now have. Initially, R12, also known as Freon 12, was used, and until 1994, it was deemed suitable. However, it caused significant damage to the planet and led many manufacturers to change their methods. They instead went for the less polluting R134a. Such was the level of damage caused by R12 that, in 2001, a complete ban on its manufacture was implemented.
R134a was seen as a significant step forward, yet it still produces high levels of greenhouse emissions that cause substantial damage to the atmosphere. It has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) rating of 1430, which is significantly better than R12 but still higher than the GWP of the newer R1234yf. This newer air con gas has a GWP of just 4.
Do Range Rovers still use R134a air con gas?
Yes, many older models still use R134a air con gas, and some even older ones still use the original R12. Models still using the R134a air con gas include:
- Defender 1994-2016
- Discovery 1 1994-1998
- Discovery 2 1998-2004
- Discovery 3 2005-2009
- Discovery 4 2010-2016
- Freelander 1 1996-2006
- Sport L320 2005-2013
- Rover P39 1994-2001
- Rover L322 2002-2012
Which Range Rover models still use R12 air con gas?
The Range Rover models still using the old R12 air con gas are fewer in number, and with manufacture now forbidden, it is unlikely your system can be regassed unless it is completely overhauled to a newer version.
Range Rovers still set up to use R12 air conditioning include:
- Defender 1984-1994
- Discovery 1 1989-1994
- Classic 1984-1994
Which Range Rovers use R1234yf air con gas?
Any Range Rover built after 2017 must use R1234yf air con gas. This is mandated by law. Vehicles using it require significantly different equipment from those that use the older gas for their air conditioning systems. Range Rover models that use the newer and more environmentally friendly R1234yf gas include:
- Defender 2020 onwards
- Discovery 5 2017 onwards
- Discovery Sport 2015 onwards
- Evoque L538 2012-2018
- Evoque L551 2019 onwards
- Sport L494 2014-2022
- Sport L461 2022 onwards
How do I know which air conditioning gas I need?
If you are unsure what air con gas your Range Rover needs and you can’t find it on our list, you can check the owner’s manual or look under the bonnet. Under the hood, you’ll see a white or yellow label. This will indicate the type of refrigerant you’ll need.
How much does air conditioning gas cost?
The cost of air conditioning regas varies depending on whether you need R134a or R1234yf added to your vehicle. Air conditioning regas, service and testing with R1234yf is more expensive than topping up R134a air con gas.
How often should I get the air con regassed?
In most cases, you should get your air con regassed every two years, but it depends on how often you use it. Pumping it out every day for long periods will see it deplete much faster than if you use it infrequently. That being said, a frequently used system operates much better than one used only occasionally.
You should also consider when you choose to have it regassed. You want to plan a regas just before the warm weather is approaching. Then you get the full benefit of your air conditioning system when it is needed most. However, using the air con to demist your Range Rover in the colder months will use up more of your gas and require a regassing earlier than you may have initially planned.
What should I do if the air con is warm?
If the air conditioning in your Range Rover is warm, there could be a host of reasons. Blockages, damaged filters, leaks and general wear can all contribute. In many cases, it’s simply because the refrigerant is low. With low refrigerant, air conditioning is unable to function properly and rather than cool air, it simply blows warm air around. This is a sign that you either need the system to be regassed or there may be a leak somewhere.
The correct gas for your Range Rover air conditioning is essential. Having the wrong product could see the system damaged and lead to expensive repairs. At RCV, we pride ourselves on the high standards of care we pay to all Range Rovers that we service. Why not contact us today to see how we can help? Our expert team not only help with all aspects of Range Rover servicing, but can also provide Range Rover MOTs, wheel alignment and Range Rover diagnostic testing.