2019 Jeep Cherokee A/C Refrigerant & Oil Capacity

Quick Answer

• Refrigerant Type: R-1234yf
• Full System Charge: 16.9 oz (479 grams)
• PAG Oil Type: PAG 46
• PAG Oil Amount: 4.7 fl oz (140 mL)
• Low-Side Service Port: On the accumulator/dryer, typically located near the passenger side firewall.
• High-Side Service Port: On the high-pressure line, typically located near the condenser on the passenger side.

Why R-1234yf Matters

For your 2019 Jeep Cherokee, the air conditioning system uses R-1234yf refrigerant. This change, which began around 2014 for many vehicles, is a significant shift from the older R-134a refrigerant. R-1234yf was introduced to meet stricter environmental regulations due to its much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) compared to R-134a. While being more environmentally friendly, R-1234yf comes with a few implications:

• Cost: R-1234yf is generally more expensive than R-134a due to its newer technology and lower production volume.
• EPA Regulations: The transition to R-1234yf is driven by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates to reduce the automotive industry's climate impact.
• Recovery Machine Requirements: Due to its mildly flammable properties, R-1234yf requires specialized A/C recovery, recycling, and recharging equipment. This equipment is essential for safe handling and preventing cross-contamination with other refrigerants.

Recharge Procedure

Recharging your 2019 Jeep Cherokee's A/C system should always be done by weight, not by pressure readings alone. While pressure gauges can give you a general idea, they are not accurate enough for proper charging. An undercharged or overcharged system can lead to poor cooling performance, increased wear on components, and even compressor failure. The correct procedure involves:

1. Evacuation: A vacuum pump is used to evacuate the system, removing all air and moisture. This is a critical step, as air and moisture can create acids and sludge within the system, leading to corrosion and component damage.
2. Leak Test: After evacuation, the system should hold a vacuum, indicating no significant leaks. If the vacuum doesn't hold, a leak detection process must be performed before recharging.
3. Accurate Charging: Using a dedicated A/C charging machine (specifically designed for R-1234yf), the exact amount of refrigerant (16.9 oz or 479 grams) is charged into the system. This machine also injects the correct amount and type of PAG 46 oil.

Warning: It is illegal to intentionally vent refrigerants into the atmosphere. Proper recovery and recycling are mandated by law.

Common A/C Problems for This Vehicle

While the 2019 Jeep Cherokee is a relatively modern vehicle, certain A/C issues can still arise:

• Compressor Failures: The A/C compressor is the heart of the system. Failures can be caused by improper refrigerant levels (too high or too low), lack of lubrication from incorrect oil, or internal mechanical issues. Symptoms include a loud, grinding noise when the A/C is on, or no cold air at all.
• Condenser Issues: The condenser, located in front of the radiator, dissipates heat. Damage from road debris (rocks, etc.) can lead to leaks. A clogged condenser, often due to dirt and debris accumulation, can also restrict airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.
• Evaporator Leaks: The evaporator, located inside the dashboard, cools the air entering the cabin. Leaks here are less common but can be challenging to diagnose and repair as they often require significant dashboard disassembly. Symptoms include a musty odor, weak cooling, and sometimes visible refrigerant dye stains under the dash.
• Blend Door Actuator Failures: While not directly related to refrigerant, blend door actuators control the airflow temperature. A faulty actuator can cause inconsistent temperatures or direct air to the wrong vents, leading you to believe there's a refrigerant problem when there isn't.

When to Call a Pro

Given the specialized nature of R-1234yf systems and the necessity of precise charging by weight, it's highly recommended to consult a certified professional for any A/C concerns. Modern automotive A/C systems are complex, and incorrect DIY attempts can lead to further damage, costly repairs, or even personal injury. An EPA 609 certified technician has the proper training, knowledge, and equipment to safely and effectively diagnose and repair your 2019 Jeep Cherokee's A/C system. They can also perform a thorough leak test to pinpoint any issues accurately.

Safety Disclaimer: Working with automotive air conditioning systems involves high pressures and specialized refrigerants. Improper handling can lead to serious injury, including chemical burns or frostbite. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment. Only EPA 609 certified technicians are legally allowed to work with refrigerants and purchase certain A/C components.

Find a certified A/C shop on Repairius.