2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee — A/C Refrigerant & PAG Oil Capacity

Quick answer

• Refrigerant: R-1234yf (most U.S. 2017 Grand Cherokees). A few trims/early builds may use R-134a—always verify the under‑hood A/C label.
• Full system charge: Most common spec ≈ 21 oz (≈ 600 g) of R‑1234yf. Some trims/engines vary (~19–23 oz / ~540–650 g). Follow the exact label under the hood.
• PAG oil: PAG 46 (R‑1234yf‑compatible formulation). Total system oil typically ~5.4–6.1 oz (≈160–180 mL). Add oil only in the amount required for the component serviced per OEM procedures.
• Service ports: Low side on the larger suction line near the passenger‑side firewall/right inner fender. High side on the smaller discharge/liquid line near the front passenger side by the condenser/radiator support. Caps are uniquely sized for R‑1234yf.

Why R-1234yf matters

By 2017, Jeep (FCA/Stellantis) had largely transitioned the Grand Cherokee to R‑1234yf to meet EPA and global requirements for lower‑GWP refrigerants. Compared to R‑134a, R‑1234yf:

• Costs more per ounce and is not interchangeable with R‑134a. Mixing types can damage components and is illegal.
• Requires dedicated R‑1234yf recovery/recycling/charging equipment and YF‑rated manifold couplers—R‑134a machines and fittings won’t connect.
• Is classified A2L (mildly flammable). Follow OEM procedures and use proper ventilation and ignition‑source control.

Always confirm the refrigerant type and exact factory fill amount on the vehicle’s under‑hood label. That label and Mopar service information supersede any general guide.

Recharge procedure (high‑level)

This platform is sensitive to charge weight. Do not “top off” by pressure. Proper service is:

1. Identify: Verify the refrigerant type (R‑1234yf vs. R‑134a) on the under‑hood label.
2. Recover: Use an R‑1234yf machine to recover any remaining refrigerant. Never vent.
3. Evacuate: Pull a deep vacuum for 30+ minutes, then perform a decay test. Address leaks before charging.
4. Oil management: If components were replaced, inject the exact PAG 46 (YF‑approved) oil amount specified by Mopar for that component. Do not mix oils. Use a dedicated, contamination‑free injector.
5. Charge by weight: Charge the precise factory mass listed on the label using a calibrated scale on an R‑1234yf machine. Do not charge by pressure or can weight estimates.
6. Verify operation: With doors open, blower on medium-high, A/C MAX/recirc ON, and engine at ~1,500 rpm, confirm clutch/compressor engagement, stable low/high pressures, condenser fan operation, and cold vent temps appropriate to ambient.
7. Leak check: Use a YF‑rated electronic leak detector and/or UV dye per OEM guidance. Replace caps with good seals—they’re part of the system.

Safety reminder: Refrigerant handling requires EPA Section 609 certification. R‑1234yf demands YF‑rated equipment and procedures.

Common A/C problems for this vehicle

• Condenser leaks and road‑debris damage: The front‑mounted condenser is vulnerable to stone impact. Many units have an integrated desiccant—replacement is preferred over flushing. Add the small specified oil amount for condenser replacement.
• Compressor control valve or compressor failure: Poor cooling at idle, erratic pressures, or metal debris in lines point to a failing control valve or internal compressor wear. If metal is present, follow Mopar’s replacement cascade (condenser, expansion device, thoroughly flush/replace lines) to prevent repeat failures.
• Evaporator core leaks: Seen on some WK2s. Gradual loss of charge with no external oil/dye often indicates an evaporator leak. Diagnosis may require a borescope or YF‑rated sniffer at the case drains. Evaporator service is labor‑intensive (dash removal).
• O‑ring and hose block leaks: Pay attention to the right‑front condenser connections and compressor manifold seals; look for oil/dye residue.
• Cooling fan or airflow issues: Inoperative fans or clogged condenser/heat‑exchanger stack elevate high‑side pressure and trip protection.
• HVAC doors/controls: While not refrigerant‑side faults, blend/recirc door or actuator issues can mimic A/C problems by reducing cold airflow or mixing in hot air.

OEM service information

For the exact refrigerant mass, oil type/quantity per component, torque specs, and diagnostic flowcharts, reference Mopar Tech Authority (factory service information) using your VIN. Under‑hood labels are the final word for refrigerant type and charge.

When to call a pro

• You don’t have an R‑1234yf recovery/evac/charge machine and scale.
• There’s a suspected evaporator leak (dash removal).
• The system ingested debris from a failed compressor.
• You’re unsure of the refrigerant already in the system (contamination check required).

EPA 609 certification is required to service MVAC systems and handle refrigerants. If in doubt, leave it to a certified A/C technician.

Find a certified A/C shop on Repairius.