2018 Ford Explorer — A/C Refrigerant & Oil (Capacity, Type, PAG Spec)

Quick answer

• Refrigerant: R-1234yf on most 2018 Ford Explorer models. Always verify the under-hood A/C label; some early-build or fleet/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles may list R-134a.
• Full system charge: Common label value is about 25 oz (≈710–730 g). Use the exact charge shown on your vehicle’s under-hood decal.
• PAG oil: PAG 46; total system oil typically around 5.1 oz (≈150 mL). Add or subtract oil based on component replacement per Ford service procedures.
• Service port locations:
  • Low side: On the larger-diameter suction line near the firewall/right (passenger) side of the engine bay.
  • High side: On the smaller-diameter discharge line near the condenser/front right of the radiator support.

Why R-1234yf matters

2018 falls well into the industry transition to R-1234yf. Many Explorers use yf, which:

• Costs more: R-1234yf refrigerant is significantly pricier than R-134a. Expect the material cost to be several times higher than R-134a.
• Requires dedicated equipment: Recovery/recycle/recharge machines and couplers must be R-1234yf-specific to avoid cross-contamination. Shops need proper yf-capable machines and separate oil.
• Is mandated for emissions: R-1234yf has a far lower global warming potential than R-134a. U.S. EPA/SNAP rules and automaker compliance drove the switch.
• Demands exact charging: Yf systems are sensitive to under/overcharge. Charging by weight—not by pressures—is critical for performance and compressor life.

Recharge procedure (high-level)

• Identify the refrigerant: Read the under-hood label. Never mix R-134a and R-1234yf. If the history is unknown, a refrigerant identifier is recommended.
• Recover, evacuate, and weigh: Properly recover the existing charge with the correct machine, then pull a deep vacuum (typically 30–45 minutes). Verify vacuum holds to screen for major leaks.
• Oil handling: Use PAG 46 that meets Ford specifications. When components are replaced, balance the total oil: add measured amounts for parts replaced and drain/measure the old compressor if applicable. Do not randomly add oil during a simple recharge.
• Charge by weight: Add the exact mass shown on the under-hood label using a calibrated scale. Do not “top off by pressure.”
• Verify operation: With doors open and blower on high, watch center vent temps and high/low-side pressures. Confirm condenser fans operate correctly. On variable-displacement compressors, scan-tool data (pressure transducer, commanded displacement) helps verify control.

Safety notes: Use R-1234yf equipment and dedicated hoses/adapters. Yf is mildly flammable—keep ignition sources away and ensure good ventilation. Never use sealers; they contaminate equipment and are not an OEM repair.

Common A/C problems for this generation Explorer (2016–2019)

• Small condenser leaks: The microchannel condenser can develop stone-impact or seam leaks. Look for oily residue at the condenser edges and end tanks.
• Compressor control valve issues: A sticking control valve can cause warm air at idle or erratic cooling. Pressures may look normal at times; scan data and commanded displacement checks help.
• Evaporator core leaks or odors: Dye or electronic sniffers at the center vents can confirm. Requires dash removal if replacement is needed.
• A/C pressure transducer faults: Intermittent transducer signals can cause compressor shutoff or surging.
• Cooling fan or module problems: Poor cooling at idle/traffic with normal driving performance points to fan control faults.
• Blend door actuator failures: Clicking/tapping behind the dash and temperature stuck on one side indicate actuator gear failure (not a refrigerant issue, but common).
• Quick-connect and line seal leaks: Check O-rings at service ports, compressor manifold block, and line joints for UV dye/oil.

OEM service info you can trust

• Under-hood A/C label: This is the definitive source for your Explorer’s refrigerant type and exact charge mass.
• Ford Workshop Manual (Section 412-00): Contains procedure steps, oil distribution amounts by component, torque specs, and diagnostic trees. Available via MotorcraftService.
• Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Ford has issued TSBs over the years addressing condenser leaks, HVAC door actuators, and pressure sensor issues. Check your VIN for applicable bulletins.

When to call a pro

• The system is empty or contaminated and needs nitrogen/trace-dye leak testing or a refrigerant identifier.
• You don’t have a yf-capable recovery machine and scale.
• Pressures or scan data point to compressor control or fan module faults.
• Evaporator or condenser replacement (dash-out or front-end disassembly) is required.

EPA Section 609 note: Servicing MVAC systems with R-134a or R-1234yf requires Section 609 certification and certified recovery equipment. Always follow federal, state, and local regulations.

Find a certified A/C shop on Repairius.