Refrigerants for Light Duty Vehicles

Air conditioning (AC) is widely available in light-duty vehicles such as cars and small trucks with a gross vehicle weight of less than 8,500 pounds. These automobiles are the mainstay transportation method for individuals, families, and businesses.

Since the introduction of automotive AC in the 1930s, AC systems have remained relatively unchanged. They cool and remove humidity from the air, using a refrigerant that evaporates at a low temperature and condenses under high pressure.

For decades, freon refrigerants have been used for light duty vehicle air conditioning for a comfortable and cool drive. Freon 134a and freon MO49Plus are non-ozone depletig hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants that are ideal for automotive and small truck AC systems.