How to Recharge Air Conditioning with Freon in a Saturn VUE

Sometimes, if your air conditioning system isn't working properly, adding refrigerant is all that is needed to correct the problem. You can use an automotive recharge kit from your local automotive store to do this. In some areas, you need a license to buy refrigerant.

Instructions

1

Check your air conditioning lines for damage. Most auto parts stores have leak detection kits. Some of these will seal small cracks or punctures. If you see any other visible damage, take your VUE to a professional to recharge the air conditioning system with refrigerant.

2

Look for the Low Pressure Side port. It is on the larger line coming out of the compressor. It is usually along the firewall. It has a black cap that may be marked L or LOW. Take this cap off.

3

Start the car and turn on the air conditioner. The air conditioner should be on the coldest setting and blowing as hard as possible so you can get a valid pressure reading. Use the pressure gauge included in your recharge kit to check the pressure. You will do this on the Low Pressure Side. Follow the instructions included in the kit as the instructions vary for different kits. If the pressure is in the acceptable range, take your VUE to a professional for service before adding refrigerant. In this case, lack of freon isn't the problem.

4

Connect the refill hose to the connector on the Low Pressure Side of the air conditioning system. The Low Pressure Side connector will be smaller than the High Pressure Side connector so the refill hose will fit properly only on the Low Pressure Side.

5

Open the valve on the refill hose to allow the refrigerant to enter the air conditioning system. Make sure that you hold the can according to the manufacturer's directions. In most cases, you will have to hold the can upright. Emptying the can of refrigerant may take up to 10 minutes.

6

Add more refrigerant if the pressure is still too low after you empty one can into the system. Check the pressure often if you add more than one can.

7

Close the valve on the refill hose and release the hose from the connector when you have finished recharging the air conditioning system. Make sure that you put the cap back on the port.