2024 Chevrolet Malibu: A/C Refrigerant & Oil

Quick answer:

• Refrigerant type: R-1234yf
• Full system charge: 17.6 oz (500g)
• PAG oil type: PAG 46
• PAG oil amount: 4.1 oz (120mL)
• Low-side service port location: Near the firewall, on the passenger side of the engine bay
• High-side service port location: Near the radiator, on the driver side of the engine bay

Why R-1234yf matters

The 2024 Chevrolet Malibu, like all new vehicles, uses R-1234yf refrigerant. This is a significant change from the R-134a used in older vehicles. R-1234yf is a more environmentally friendly refrigerant with a much lower global warming potential. However, it is also more expensive and flammable. As a result, it requires special equipment for handling and service. You cannot use an R-134a machine on an R-1234yf system, and vice versa. This is to prevent cross-contamination and ensure the safety of the technician and the vehicle.

Recharge procedure

A/C recharge is not a simple DIY task. It requires specialized equipment and training. The following is a high-level overview of the process:

1. Evacuate the system: This removes all of the old refrigerant and oil from the system. This is a critical step, as any remaining contaminants can damage the new components.
2. Charge the system: This is done by weight, not pressure. The correct amount of refrigerant is specified by the manufacturer and can be found on a sticker under the hood. Using the wrong amount of refrigerant can damage the A/C system and cause it to not cool properly.
3. Add PAG oil: The correct amount of PAG oil must be added to the system. The type and amount of oil are specified by the manufacturer.

Common A/C problems for this vehicle

The 2024 Chevrolet Malibu is a relatively new vehicle, so there is not a lot of data on common A/C problems. However, some common A/C problems on other vehicles that use R-1234yf include:

• Compressor failures: These can be caused by a variety of factors, including low refrigerant levels, a clogged condenser, or a faulty compressor clutch.
• Condenser issues: The condenser is located in front of the radiator and is responsible for cooling the refrigerant. It can be damaged by road debris or a collision.
• Evaporator leaks: The evaporator is located inside the passenger compartment and is responsible for cooling the air. It can be difficult to access and repair.

When to call a pro

If you are not comfortable performing your own A/C repairs, it is best to take your vehicle to a qualified technician. A/C systems are complex and can be dangerous to work on if you are not properly trained. A qualified technician will have the proper equipment and training to safely and effectively repair your A/C system.

Disclaimer: It is illegal to work on an A/C system without an EPA 609 certification. If you are not certified, you must take your vehicle to a qualified technician.

Find a certified A/C shop on Repairius

If you need to find a qualified A/C shop in your area, you can use the Repairius shop locator. We have a network of over 10,000 certified shops across the country.