2019 Ram 1500 A/C Refrigerant & Oil Capacity

Quick answer

• Refrigerant Type: R-1234yf
• Full System Charge: 19.4 oz (550 grams)
• PAG Oil Type: PAG 46
• PAG Oil Amount: 6.0 oz (180 mL)
• Low-Side Service Port Location: On the accumulator, near the firewall on the passenger side.
• High-Side Service Port Location: On the refrigerant line, near the condenser on the passenger side.

Why R-1234yf matters

The 2019 Ram 1500 utilizes R-1234yf refrigerant, a significant change from the R-134a used in older vehicles. This transition, which became more widespread in vehicles manufactured after 2014, is driven by environmental regulations. R-1234yf has a much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) compared to R-134a, making it more environmentally friendly.

However, this comes with some important implications for vehicle owners and technicians:

• Cost: R-1234yf is considerably more expensive than R-134a. This can lead to higher repair costs if your A/C system requires a refrigerant recharge or if there's a leak.
• EPA Regulations: Due to its environmental impact, the handling and disposal of R-1234yf are strictly regulated by the EPA. This means that only EPA 609 certified technicians should work on R-1234yf systems.
• Specialized Equipment: R-1234yf systems require specialized recovery and recharge equipment. Standard R-134a equipment cannot be used, as cross-contamination can damage both the vehicle's A/C system and the recovery machine.

Recharge procedure

Recharging your 2019 Ram 1500's A/C system properly is crucial for its performance and longevity. It's not as simple as just adding a can of refrigerant. Here's a high-level overview of the correct procedure:

1. Evacuation: Before adding any refrigerant, the system must be evacuated using a vacuum pump. This removes all air and moisture from the A/C system, which can cause corrosion and hinder cooling performance if left inside.
2. Leak Test: After evacuation, the system should be held under vacuum to check for leaks. If the vacuum doesn't hold, there's a leak that needs to be repaired before proceeding.
3. Proper Charge by Weight: The most critical step is to charge the system with the precise amount of refrigerant by weight, not by pressure. Overcharging or undercharging can lead to poor cooling, increased strain on the compressor, and potential system damage. Refer to the "Quick Answer" section for the exact charge amount. Using a refrigerant charging station that measures by weight is essential.
4. PAG Oil: Ensure the correct type of PAG 46 oil is used. If components are replaced, a portion of the total oil capacity will need to be added back to the system.

Warning: It is illegal and dangerous to vent refrigerant into the atmosphere. Always ensure proper recovery and recycling of refrigerant.

Common A/C problems for this vehicle

While the 2019 Ram 1500 is a robust truck, its A/C system can experience some common issues:

• Compressor Failures: The A/C compressor is the heart of the system. Failures can be due to a lack of lubrication (low refrigerant charge leading to low oil circulation), internal wear, or electrical issues. Symptoms include a loud grinding noise, no cold air, or the compressor not engaging.
• Condenser Issues: The condenser, located in front of the radiator, dissipates heat. It can be damaged by road debris, leading to leaks. A clogged condenser (from dirt or debris) can also reduce cooling efficiency.
• Evaporator Leaks: The evaporator, located inside the dashboard, cools the air. Leaks here are less common but can be challenging to diagnose and repair, often requiring dashboard removal. Symptoms include a musty odor and visible refrigerant oil inside the cabin.
• Electrical Problems: Issues with pressure sensors, relays, or the A/C clutch can prevent the system from operating correctly.

When to call a pro

Given the complexity of modern A/C systems, especially those using R-1234yf, it's highly recommended to seek professional help for any A/C issues beyond a simple visual inspection. Here's why:

• Specialized Tools & Expertise: Professional technicians have the necessary diagnostic tools, specialized R-1234yf recovery and recharge equipment, and the EPA 609 certification required to safely and effectively work on your vehicle's A/C system.
• Accurate Diagnosis: A professional can accurately diagnose the root cause of your A/C problem, preventing unnecessary repairs and ensuring a lasting solution.
• Safety: Refrigerant can cause severe frostbite and is harmful if inhaled. A professional understands the safety precautions necessary when handling refrigerants.
• Environmental Responsibility: Professionals adhere to EPA regulations for refrigerant handling, protecting the environment from harmful emissions.

Disclaimer: Working with automotive air conditioning systems can be dangerous due to high pressures and hazardous chemicals. Incorrect procedures can lead to serious injury or damage to the vehicle. Always consult a certified professional for A/C repairs and services, especially for systems using R-1234yf. An EPA 609 certification is required for anyone performing A/C work in the United States.

Find a certified A/C shop on Repairius.