How to Recharge Air Conditioning with Freon in a Hyundai Sonata

If your Sonata was manufactured after 1994, it is possible to recharge the system with R134 refrigerant as long as all components are working properly. Models made in or before 1994 may use R12 refrigerant and will need to be retrofitted to accept R134 refrigerant before you can recharge the system.

Instructions

1

Check the air conditioning lines of your Hyundai Sonata for damage. Leak detection kits are available to help detect leaks and seal small ones. If you notice any leaks or damaged areas, you should replace or repair them before you recharge the system. Keep in mind that it is illegal to discharge refrigerant into the air. This includes refrigerant that leaks from a recharged system that you know leaks.

2

Find the Low Pressure Side port. This port is between the compressor and the firewall. It has a yellow or blue cap marked L or LOW. Take off the cap and put it aside. You will have to replace it later.

3

Look at the Low Pressure Side port connector to determine if the system is compatible with R134 refrigerant. If you see quick connect valves, it is R134 compatible and you can continue with the recharge. If you see screw on valves, the system takes R12 and you need to retrofit it to accept R134 because R12 and R134 are incompatible. Mixing the two may cause serious damage to the system.

4

Check the pressure on Low Pressure Side of the system using an automotive air conditioner pressure gauge. To do this, turn on the ignition and the air conditioner. It should be on the highest fan speed and lowest temperature to get an accurate pressure reading.

5

Add R134 refrigerant to the Low Pressure Side. Make sure you follow the directions on the kit. These will vary with different kits. Keep in mind that it may take more than one can to fully recharge the system. Make sure that you check the pressure often so you can be sure to keep the pressure within safe limits.

6

Close the valve and remove the refill kit or can from the port valve. Follow the manufacturer's directions when you do this. Make sure that you replace the cap on the Low Pressure Side port valve.

7

Give the refrigerant time to circulate by leaving the engine running and the air conditioner on for at least 15 minutes.