2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter A/C Refrigerant & Oil Capacity

Quick answer

• Refrigerant Type: R-1234yf
• Full System Charge: 22.9 +/- 0.7 oz (650 +/- 20g)
• PAG Oil Type: PAG 46
• PAG Oil Amount: 4.7 fl oz (140 mL)
• Low-Side Service Port Location: On the refrigerant line near the firewall, typically on the passenger side.
• High-Side Service Port Location: Near the condenser, often on the driver's side, closer to the front of the vehicle.

Why R-1234yf matters

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter utilizes R-1234yf refrigerant, a significant change from the older R-134a that was standard in vehicles prior to the mid-2010s. This transition was driven by environmental regulations, as R-1234yf has a much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) compared to R-134a. While better for the environment, this change has a few implications for vehicle owners and technicians:

• Cost: R-1234yf is considerably more expensive than R-134a. This means that any A/C system repair or recharge involving refrigerant will likely incur higher material costs.
• EPA Regulations: The EPA mandates specific handling and disposal procedures for all refrigerants, and R-1234yf is no exception. It is illegal and harmful to the environment to vent refrigerants into the atmosphere.
• Recovery Machine Requirements: Due to the different chemical properties and the need to prevent cross-contamination, specialized recovery, recycling, and recharging equipment is required for R-1234yf systems. Older R-134a machines cannot be used for R-1234yf.

Recharge procedure

Recharging your Sprinter's A/C system is not as simple as just adding a can of refrigerant. It requires specialized tools and knowledge to do correctly and safely. Here's a high-level overview of the proper procedure, emphasizing critical cautions:

1. System Evacuation: Before adding any new refrigerant, the system must be completely evacuated using a vacuum pump. This removes any moisture and air, which can be detrimental to system performance and longevity. Moisture can react with refrigerant to form corrosive acids, and air can create pressure spikes and reduce cooling efficiency.
2. Leak Detection: After evacuation, the system should hold a vacuum for a specified period to ensure there are no leaks. If a leak is present, it must be located and repaired before recharging.
3. Proper Charge by Weight: The most crucial aspect of recharging is adding the correct amount of refrigerant by weight, not by pressure. Overcharging or undercharging can both lead to poor cooling performance, increased wear on components, and potential system damage. Always refer to the manufacturer's specifications (as provided in the "Quick answer" section above) for the precise charge amount. Pressure readings are only useful for diagnosis after the correct charge has been verified.

Common A/C problems for this vehicle

While the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a robust vehicle, like any complex system, its A/C can encounter specific issues. For this generation, common problems often include:

• Compressor Failures: The compressor is the heart of the A/C system. Issues can range from internal wear and tear to clutch problems (if equipped). Symptoms include a lack of cold air, unusual noises when the A/C is on, or the compressor not engaging.
• Condenser Issues: Located at the front of the vehicle, the condenser is susceptible to damage from road debris. A clogged or damaged condenser can restrict airflow and hinder the system's ability to dissipate heat, leading to poor cooling.
• Evaporator Leaks: The evaporator is located inside the dashboard and is responsible for cooling the air entering the cabin. Leaks in the evaporator can be challenging to diagnose and repair, often requiring significant dashboard disassembly. Signs include a musty odor, refrigerant leaks inside the cabin, or a gradual loss of cooling.
• Blend Door Actuator Issues: While not directly a refrigerant problem, issues with the blend door actuators can prevent the proper mixing of hot and cold air, leading to inconsistent cabin temperatures despite a properly functioning A/C system.

When to call a pro

Working with automotive A/C systems requires specialized knowledge, tools, and certifications. Refrigerants are potent greenhouse gases and can cause frostbite if mishandled. If you suspect an A/C problem with your 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, it's always best to consult a certified professional. They have the training and equipment to diagnose and repair your system safely and effectively.

Disclaimer: Always refer to your vehicle's service manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Improper handling of refrigerants can cause personal injury and harm to the environment. Only EPA 609 certified technicians should perform A/C system repairs involving refrigerants.

Find a certified A/C shop on Repairius.