2019 Toyota Highlander A/C Refrigerant and Oil Specifications

Quick Answer: 2019 Highlander A/C Specs

• Refrigerant Type: R-1234yf
• Refrigerant Charge: 21.9 oz ± 1.8 oz (620g ± 50g)
• PAG Oil Type: ND-12 (PAG 46)
• PAG Oil Capacity (Full System): 4.1 fl oz (120 mL)
• Low-Side Port Location: Near the firewall, on the passenger side of the engine bay.
• High-Side Port Location: 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 R-1234yf refrigerant. Your 2019 Highlander uses R-1234yf exclusively. This is important for a few key reasons:

• Cost: R-1234yf is significantly more expensive per pound than R-134a. This means a full system recharge will cost more in refrigerant alone.
• Environmental Impact: The EPA mandated this change because R-1234yf has a much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than R-134a.
• Equipment: Servicing an R-1234yf system requires a specific, dedicated recovery and recharge machine. Cross-contamination with R-134a can damage the system and the service equipment. Shops must invest in this new technology to service your vehicle properly.

Recharge Procedure

Recharging your Highlander's A/C system is not just a matter of "topping it off." Modern systems are extremely sensitive to the exact amount of refrigerant. The only way to ensure a correct charge is by weight.

1. Recovery: A technician will first connect a specialized machine to recover all existing refrigerant from the system.
2. Evacuation: The system is then placed under a deep vacuum for at least 30 minutes. This boils off any moisture, which can freeze and cause blockages or turn into corrosive acid when mixed with refrigerant and oil.
3. Charging: The exact weight of R-1234yf (21.9 oz / 620g) is programmed into the machine and injected back into the system. Charging based on pressure gauge readings is inaccurate and can lead to poor cooling and compressor damage.

Common A/C Problems for this Highlander Generation (2014-2019)

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

• Condenser Damage: The condenser sits at the very front of the vehicle, making it vulnerable to rocks and road debris. A small puncture can cause a complete loss of refrigerant. Inspect the condenser fins for visible damage or oily residue, which indicates a leak.
• Compressor Failure: While less common on newer models, the A/C compressor can fail. You might hear grinding or squealing noises when the A/C is on, or the system may not blow cold at all. Compressor replacement is a major repair that requires flushing the entire system to remove debris.
• Evaporator Leaks: The evaporator core inside the dashboard can develop leaks. A common symptom is a musty or sweet smell coming from the vents. Diagnosing this requires specialized electronic leak detectors or UV dye, and replacement involves removing the entire dashboard.

When to Call a Pro

Due to the cost of R-1234yf, the requirement for specialized equipment, and the environmental regulations, A/C service on a 2019 Highlander is not a DIY job. If your A/C isn't blowing cold, it's best to have it professionally diagnosed.

Disclaimer: Federal law requires that anyone servicing or repairing motor vehicle air conditioning (MVAC) systems must be certified under EPA Section 609. Always use a qualified technician.

Find a certified A/C shop on Repairius.