2020 Jeep Cherokee A/C Refrigerant & Oil Capacity

Quick Answer

• Refrigerant Type: R-1234yf
• Full System Charge: 16.9 oz (480 grams)
• PAG Oil Type: PAG 46
• PAG Oil Amount: 4.4 - 5.1 oz (130 - 150 mL) (Total System, including compressor, condenser, evaporator, and lines)
• Low-Side Service Port: Typically located on the accumulator/drier or a line near the firewall on the passenger side.
• High-Side Service Port: Usually found on the refrigerant line between the condenser and the expansion valve, often near the front of the engine bay on the passenger side.

Why R-1234yf Matters

The 2020 Jeep Cherokee utilizes R-1234yf refrigerant, a significant change from the older R-134a. This transition, mandated for most new vehicles since 2014, is driven by environmental concerns. R-1234yf has a much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) compared to R-134a, making it a more eco-friendly choice.

However, this change comes with implications. R-1234yf is considerably more expensive than R-134a. Furthermore, specialized recovery and recycling equipment is required to handle R-1234yf. This equipment is designed to prevent cross-contamination with R-134a and ensure proper recovery and charging procedures, which ultimately contributes to higher service costs at repair shops. Do-it-yourselfers should be aware that proper R-1234yf handling requires EPA 609 certification and specialized tools.

Recharge Procedure for Your 2020 Jeep Cherokee A/C

Recharging your 2020 Jeep Cherokee's A/C system is not as simple as just adding a can of refrigerant. It's a precise process that requires specialized tools and knowledge. The most critical aspect is ensuring the correct amount of refrigerant by weight, not by pressure. Overcharging or undercharging can lead to poor cooling performance, increased wear on components, and potential system damage.

The proper procedure involves:

1. Recovery: Safely removing any existing refrigerant from the system using a certified recovery machine.
2. Evacuation: Pulling a deep vacuum on the system to remove air and moisture. This is crucial as moisture can mix with refrigerant to form corrosive acids, damaging components.
3. Leak Test: While under vacuum, the system should hold its vacuum, indicating no significant leaks. If it doesn't, a leak detection process (e.g., nitrogen pressure test, electronic leak detector, UV dye) is necessary before recharging.
4. Recharge by Weight: Introducing the precise amount of new R-1234yf refrigerant into the system using an accurate charging scale.

Warning: Relying solely on pressure gauges to determine charge can be misleading due to varying ambient temperatures and system conditions. Always refer to the manufacturer's specifications for the exact charge weight.

Common A/C Problems for the Jeep Cherokee (KL Generation)

While the 2020 Jeep Cherokee is a relatively modern vehicle, certain A/C issues can still arise:

• Compressor Failures: The A/C compressor is a high-wear item. Issues can range from internal mechanical failure to clutch problems (though many modern compressors are clutchless). Symptoms often include a lack of cold air, grinding noises, or a seized compressor preventing the engine from starting.
• Condenser Issues: The condenser, located at the front of the vehicle, is susceptible to damage from road debris. A damaged condenser can leak refrigerant, leading to a loss of cooling. Blocked fins can also reduce heat exchange efficiency.
• Evaporator Leaks: The evaporator, located inside the dashboard, can develop leaks over time. These are often difficult to diagnose without specialized equipment due to their location. Symptoms include a musty odor (from refrigerant mixing with moisture) and a gradual loss of cooling.
• Blend Door Actuator Problems: While not a refrigerant issue, faulty blend door actuators can prevent proper temperature control, making it seem like the A/C isn't working correctly when it's actually an air distribution problem.

When to Call a Pro

Due to the specialized nature of R-1234yf systems and the environmental regulations surrounding refrigerants, it's highly recommended to consult a certified professional for any A/C diagnostics or repairs. Attempting to service an R-1234yf system without the proper training and equipment can be environmentally harmful and potentially dangerous. Furthermore, incorrect diagnosis can lead to unnecessary parts replacement or further damage to your A/C system.

Safety Disclaimer: Working with automotive air conditioning systems involves high pressures and refrigerants that can cause frostbite or other injuries if not handled correctly. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and gloves, and follow all manufacturer and safety guidelines. Only individuals with EPA 609 certification should attempt to work on mobile A/C systems involving refrigerants.

Find a certified A/C shop on Repairius.