Automotive air conditioning systems use different types of oil, and the specific type of oil varies based on the refrigerant, air conditioning system temperature range, and compressor type. Hybrid and electric vehicle compressors use different oils compared to conventional engine system compressors.
Oil type according to refrigerant: R-12, R-1234yf and R-134a
The refrigeration oil required for a car air conditioning system depends on several factors, mainly the type of refrigerant used:
- R-12 system: Use mineral oil, which mixes well with R-12 and will not break down and lose its lubricating properties. However, mineral oil cannot be used with R-134a refrigerant.
- R-134a system: Requires synthetic oil such as polyalkylene glycol (PAG). PAG and POE oils come in different blends; always use the type recommended by the vehicle manufacturer or replacement part manufacturer.
- R-1234yf system: PAG 46 oil can be used, which is backward compatible with R-134a systems. However, older PAG 46 oils used with R-134a are not forward compatible with R-1234yf systems.
The lubricant used in automotive air conditioning systems is a foam-free, sulfur-free grade specially formulated for automotive air conditioning systems.
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