2018 Ram 1500 A/C Refrigerant and Oil Specifications

Quick Answer

• Refrigerant Type: R-1234yf
• System Charge: 22.0 oz (624g)
• PAG Oil Type: PAG 46
• Oil Capacity: 4.9 oz (145 mL)
• Service Ports:
  • Low-side: Near the firewall, on the passenger side.
  • High-side: Near the radiator, on the passenger side.

Why R-1234yf Matters

The 2018 Ram 1500 uses R-1234yf refrigerant, not the older R-134a. This is important for a few reasons:

• Cost: R-1234yf is significantly more expensive than R-134a.
• EPA Regulations: It has a much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP), which is why the EPA mandated its use in newer vehicles.
• Specialized Equipment: Servicing an R-1234yf system requires a dedicated recovery and charging machine. Cross-contamination with R-134a can damage the system and the equipment.

Recharge Procedure

It is not recommended to recharge the A/C system based on pressure readings alone. The only way to ensure a proper charge is to evacuate the system with a recovery machine and then recharge it with the exact weight of refrigerant specified by the manufacturer.

Common A/C Problems for this Vehicle

While the Ram 1500 has a robust A/C system, some common issues include:

• Compressor Failures: The A/C compressor can fail due to internal wear or clutch issues.
• Condenser Damage: The condenser is located at the front of the vehicle and is susceptible to damage from road debris.
• Evaporator Leaks: The evaporator core can develop leaks, which are often difficult to detect as it is located inside the dashboard.

When to Call a Pro

Due to the specialized equipment and training required to service R-1234yf systems, it is highly recommended to have a certified technician diagnose and repair any A/C issues.

Disclaimer: The EPA requires anyone servicing a motor vehicle A/C system to be certified under Section 609 of the Clean Air Act.

Find a certified A/C shop on Repairius.