2022 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 oz (140 mL)
• Low-Side Service Port Location: On the accumulator/drier, near the firewall on the passenger side.
• High-Side Service Port Location: On the refrigerant line, typically closer to the condenser, near the front of the engine bay on the passenger side.

Why R-1234yf Matters

For your 2022 Jeep Cherokee, the A/C system utilizes R-1234yf refrigerant. This is a significant change from the older R-134a refrigerant that was standard in vehicles prior to approximately 2014. The move to R-1234yf was driven by environmental concerns, as it has a much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than R-134a, making it more eco-friendly.

While good for the environment, R-1234yf does come with some implications for vehicle owners and technicians:

• Cost: R-1234yf is generally more expensive than R-134a, which can lead to higher repair costs if your A/C system needs servicing or a recharge.
• EPA Regulations: Due to its environmental impact, the handling and disposal of R-1234yf are subject to strict EPA regulations. It's illegal to intentionally vent refrigerants into the atmosphere.
• Specialized Equipment: Servicing an R-1234yf system requires specialized recovery and recharging equipment designed specifically for this refrigerant. Standard R-134a equipment cannot be used, and cross-contamination can damage both the vehicle's system and the equipment.

Recharge Procedure (High-Level)

Recharging your 2022 Jeep Cherokee's A/C system is not a DIY task; it requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Here's a high-level overview of the professional procedure:

1. Recovery: The first step is to evacuate any remaining refrigerant from the system using an EPA-certified R-1234yf recovery machine. This ensures proper system depressurization and prevents refrigerant release into the atmosphere.
2. Evacuation: Once recovered, the system is then put under a deep vacuum for an extended period (typically 30-60 minutes). This process removes any moisture and non-condensable gases from the system, which can cause significant damage and reduced performance if not removed.
3. Leak Testing: After evacuation, the system should hold a vacuum for a period to confirm there are no leaks. If a leak is present, it must be located and repaired before proceeding.
4. Recharging by Weight: The most critical step is to recharge the system with the precise amount of R-1234yf refrigerant by weight, as specified above. Never attempt to charge an A/C system by pressure alone, as pressure readings can be misleading and lead to over or undercharging, both of which can damage the compressor and other components.
5. Oil Measurement & Replacement: During evacuation and recovery, some PAG oil will inevitably be removed from the system. It's crucial for a professional to measure the amount of oil removed and replace it with the correct type and quantity of new PAG 46 oil to maintain proper lubrication of the compressor.

Safety Disclaimer: Working with automotive air conditioning systems and refrigerants can be dangerous. Refrigerants are under high pressure and can cause severe frostbite if they come into contact with skin or eyes. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment. It is illegal for individuals without EPA Section 609 certification to purchase or handle refrigerants professionally.

Common A/C Problems for This Vehicle

While the 2022 Jeep Cherokee is a relatively new vehicle, some common A/C issues can arise across many vehicle platforms:

• Refrigerant Leaks: Leaks are the most frequent cause of A/C problems. These can occur at various points, including O-rings, hoses, the condenser, evaporator, or compressor seals. Due to the cost of R-1234yf, even small leaks can become costly over time.
• Condenser Issues: The condenser, located at the front of the vehicle, is susceptible to damage from road debris. A bent or punctured condenser will lead to refrigerant leaks and loss of cooling performance.
• Evaporator Leaks: The evaporator is located inside the dashboard and is a common, though more complex, source of leaks. An evaporator leak often manifests as a sweet smell in the cabin and requires extensive dashboard disassembly for repair.
• Compressor Failure: The A/C compressor is the heart of the system. Failures can be due to lack of lubrication (often from low refrigerant and oil), internal defects, or electrical issues. A failing compressor might produce noise, especially when the A/C is on, or simply stop cooling.
• Electrical Problems: Fuse, relay, or wiring issues can prevent the compressor clutch from engaging, leading to no cold air. Sensor failures can also impact system operation.

When to Call a Pro

Given the complexity of modern A/C systems, the specialized refrigerant, and the environmental regulations, it's always best to call an EPA 609 certified professional if you experience any A/C issues with your 2022 Jeep Cherokee. Signs you should seek professional help include:

• Your A/C system is blowing warm air.
• The A/C system is making unusual noises.
• You notice a sweet or musty smell from the vents.
• There are visible leaks or stains around A/C components.

Attempting DIY repairs on an R-1234yf system without the proper training and equipment can be costly, dangerous, and environmentally irresponsible.

Find a certified A/C shop on Repairius.