2020 Tesla Model S A/C Refrigerant & Oil Capacity

Quick answer

• Refrigerant Type: R-1234yf
• Full System Charge: 620 ± 20 grams (21.87 ± 0.7 oz)
• PAG Oil Type: SP-A2 (specific to Tesla systems, not a standard PAG viscosity like 46, 100, or 150). This is crucial for electrical isolation with the high-voltage compressor.
• PAG Oil Amount: 130 ± 10 mL (4.4 ± 0.3 oz)
• Low-Side Service Port Location: Typically located on the accumulator/drier, near the passenger side firewall.
• High-Side Service Port Location: Usually found on the refrigerant line between the condenser and the expansion valve, often near the front of the vehicle.

Why R-1234yf matters

For your 2020 Tesla Model S, the A/C system uses R-1234yf refrigerant. This is a significant change from the older R-134a refrigerant, primarily due to environmental concerns. R-1234yf has a much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) compared to R-134a, making it more eco-friendly. This transition began around 2014 for many automotive manufacturers, driven by EPA regulations and international agreements.

However, this newer refrigerant comes with its own considerations:

• Cost: R-1234yf is significantly more expensive than R-134a.
• EPA Regulations: Specific EPA 609 certification is required for technicians to handle R-1234yf, and specialized equipment is mandated for recovery and recycling.
• Recovery Machine Requirements: R-1234yf systems require dedicated recovery, recycling, and recharging machines to prevent contamination with other refrigerants. These machines are designed for the specific properties and flammability characteristics of R-1234yf.

Recharge procedure cautions

Recharging the A/C system on your Tesla Model S is not a DIY task. It requires specialized knowledge, equipment, and strict adherence to procedures. Here are critical considerations:

• Evacuation is Key: Before any refrigerant is added, the system must be properly evacuated using a vacuum pump. This removes all air and moisture, which can severely damage the A/C components and reduce cooling efficiency.
• Charge by Weight, Not Pressure: Always charge the system by weight, using a precise refrigerant scale. Relying on pressure gauges alone can lead to overcharging or undercharging, both of which can cause system damage and poor performance. The exact charge amount (620 ± 20 grams) is critical for optimal operation of the sophisticated thermal management system in your Tesla.
• PAG Oil Type: Your Tesla uses a specialized SP-A2 oil. Do NOT substitute with generic PAG 46, 100, or 150 oils. The SP-A2 oil is specifically designed to be compatible with the high-voltage electric compressor and its internal insulation requirements. Using the wrong oil can lead to catastrophic compressor failure and pose safety risks.
• No "Top-Offs": If your system is low on refrigerant, it means there