2017 Subaru Crosstrek A/C Refrigerant and Oil Specifications

Quick Answer

• Refrigerant Type: R-1234yf
• System Charge Amount: 14.1 oz ± 1.76 oz (400g ± 50g)
• PAG Oil Type: PAG 46 (specifically, Subaru Genuine A/C Compressor Oil DH-PR)
• PAG Oil Capacity: 2.7 fl oz (80 mL) for the total system
• Service Port Locations:
  • Low-Side: Near the firewall, on the passenger side, behind the shock tower.
  • High-Side: In front of the radiator, near the hood latch.

Why R-1234yf Matters

Starting around 2014, automakers began transitioning from R-134a to the more environmentally friendly HFO-1234yf (or R-1234yf) refrigerant to meet new EPA standards. Your 2017 Crosstrek uses this newer R-1234yf refrigerant. It's important to know this for a few key reasons:

• Cost: R-1234yf is significantly more expensive per pound than R-134a.
• Specialized Equipment: Servicing R-1234yf requires a dedicated recovery and charging machine. Cross-contaminating the two refrigerants can damage your A/C system and the service equipment. Shops must have specific, certified machines to handle R-1234yf.
• Availability: While more common now, R-1234yf is not available in DIY "top-off" cans at auto parts stores. Servicing is best left to a qualified shop.

Recharge Procedure

Recharging an A/C system is not just about adding refrigerant. Achieving optimal cooling performance and ensuring system longevity requires a precise procedure. Simply "topping off" the system using pressure gauges is not accurate and can lead to overcharging, which can damage the compressor.

The correct procedure involves:

1. Recovery: A certified technician will first use a dedicated R-1234yf machine to safely recover any existing refrigerant from the system.
2. Evacuation: The system is placed under a deep vacuum for at least 30-45 minutes. This boils off any moisture that may have entered the system, which is critical as moisture can mix with refrigerant and oil to form corrosive acids.
3. Charging by Weight: The exact amount of refrigerant—14.1 oz (400g) for your Crosstrek—is weighed and injected back into the system. This is the only way to ensure the correct charge.

Common A/C Problems for the 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek

While generally reliable, this generation of Crosstrek can experience a few common A/C issues:

• Compressor Clutch/Coil Failure: The electromagnetic clutch that engages the compressor can fail. You might hear a loud click when you turn on the A/C, but the compressor itself won't spin, and you'll get no cold air.
• Condenser Damage: Located at the very front of the car, the condenser is susceptible to damage from road debris like rocks. A small puncture will cause the refrigerant to leak out, often rapidly.
• Evaporator Core Leaks: Though less common, leaks can develop in the evaporator core, which is located inside the dashboard. This is a labor-intensive repair that requires removing the entire dashboard assembly.

When to Call a Pro

Because your 2017 Crosstrek uses R-1234yf, almost any A/C service requires a trip to a qualified shop. If you experience any of the following, it's time to have it professionally diagnosed:

• The A/C blows warm or only slightly cool air.
• You hear unusual noises (grinding, squealing) when the A/C is on.
• The A/C system cycles on and off rapidly.
• The compressor clutch does not engage.

Disclaimer: Federal law requires that anyone servicing a motor vehicle air conditioning (MVAC) system must be trained and certified under the EPA Section 609 program. Always wear safety glasses when working near an A/C system.

Find a certified A/C shop on Repairius.