2019 Ford Explorer A/C Refrigerant & Oil Capacity

Quick Answer

• Refrigerant Type: R-1234yf
• Full System Charge: 19.4 oz (550 grams)
• PAG Oil Type: PAG 46
• PAG Oil Amount: 6.0 oz (180 mL)
• Low-Side Service Port Location: On the accumulator/drier, near the firewall on the passenger's side.
• High-Side Service Port Location: On the refrigerant line, generally closer to the condenser, near the front of the engine bay on the passenger's side.

The 2019 Ford Explorer utilizes R-1234yf refrigerant, a newer, more environmentally friendly alternative to the older R-134a. This transition, mandated for vehicles manufactured after 2014, aims to reduce the automotive industry's impact on global warming.

Why R-1234yf Matters

R-1234yf is a hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) refrigerant with a significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) compared to R-134a. While better for the environment, there are some implications for vehicle owners:

• Cost: R-1234yf is generally more expensive than R-134a due to its newer technology and production processes.
• EPA Regulations: The EPA encourages the use of refrigerants with lower GWP, and R-1234yf fits this criterion. This means specialized equipment and certifications are required for handling it.
• Recovery Machine Requirements: Due to its unique properties and the need to prevent cross-contamination with other refrigerants, dedicated R-1234yf recovery, recycling, and recharging machines are mandated for professional repair shops.

Recharge Procedure

Recharging your 2019 Ford Explorer's A/C system is not as simple as attaching a can of refrigerant. It's a precise process that, if done incorrectly, can lead to costly damage and poor performance. Here's a high-level overview, emphasizing critical steps:

1. System Evacuation: Before adding any new refrigerant, the system must be evacuated using a professional vacuum pump. This removes all air and moisture, which can cause corrosion and hinder cooling performance. Moisture reacts with refrigerant to form acids, damaging components.
2. Leak Detection: A professional should always conduct a thorough leak detection process. Adding refrigerant to a leaking system is a temporary fix and wasteful.
3. Proper Charge by Weight: Always charge the system by weight, not by pressure. The specified charge amount (19.4 oz or 550 grams for your 2019 Ford Explorer) is critical for optimal operation. Too much or too little refrigerant can lead to compressor damage, reduced cooling, and increased fuel consumption. Pressure readings are indicators, but not a reliable method for determining the correct charge amount.
4. PAG Oil Management: When components are replaced (e.g., compressor, condenser), new PAG 46 oil must be added in the correct amount to compensate for lost oil. The correct total system capacity for PAG 46 oil in your Explorer is 6.0 oz (180 mL).

Safety Disclaimer: Automotive A/C systems contain refrigerants under high pressure, which can cause personal injury. Handling refrigerants requires specialized tools and knowledge. Attempting to service your A/C system without proper EPA 609 certification and training can be dangerous and harmful to the environment. Always consult a certified professional.

Common A/C Problems for This Vehicle

While the Ford Explorer is generally reliable, some common A/C issues can arise in this generation:

• Compressor Failures: The A/C compressor is the heart of the system. Failures can manifest as a lack of cold air, grinding noises, or a seized compressor clutch. Regular maintenance and proper refrigerant charge are key to extending its life.
• Condenser Issues: The condenser, located at the front of the vehicle, is susceptible to damage from road debris. A damaged condenser can leak refrigerant or restrict airflow, leading to poor cooling.
• Evaporator Leaks: The evaporator, located inside the dashboard, can develop leaks over time. This is often harder to diagnose as it can present as a slow leak with no obvious external signs, often indicated by a sweet smell coming from the vents (coolant, not refrigerant, that is leaking from the heater core). Low refrigerant due to an evaporator leak will cause a lack of cooling.
• Blend Door Actuator Problems: While not a refrigerant issue, a faulty blend door actuator can prevent proper temperature control, blowing hot air when cold is selected or vice-versa. This can sometimes be misdiagnosed as an A/C problem.

When to Call a Pro

If you experience any of the following, it's time to consult a certified HVAC technician:

• Your A/C is blowing warm air.
• You hear unusual noises when the A/C is running.
• There's a noticeable odor coming from the vents.
• The A/C system cycles on and off too frequently.
• You suspect a leak in the system.

An EPA 609 certified technician has the proper equipment and expertise to accurately diagnose and repair your 2019 Ford Explorer's A/C system, ensuring it operates efficiently and reliably.

Find a certified A/C shop on Repairius.