Sephia LS L4-1.8L (2001)
Refrigerant: Description and Operation
Refrigerant
Refrigerant 134a (R-134a) systems
In an effort to avoid use of ozone-depleting CFC refrigerants, Kia Motor Company has introduced a new refrigerant system for this vehicle. This system
uses non-CFC-based refrigerant R-134a.
This new type of refrigerant has many of same properties as R-12 and is similar in form and function. R-134a is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC)-based
refrigerant, however, R12 is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC). With no chlorine atoms in its molecular structure, use of R-134a refrigerant will not have any
harmful effects on atmosphere's ozone layer.
Identifying R-134a and R-12 A/C systems
To determine which types of A/C system a particular vehicle has, inspect A/C system's major components and refrigerant lines for special tags. If system
has yellow R134a "NON-CFC" tags, it is an R-134a system and uses R-134a refrigerant. If there are no special R-134a "NON CFC" tags on A/C system
components or lines, system uses R-12. R-134a systems can also be identified by brown colored O-rings (HNBR) used throughout A/C system.
CAUTION: Do not add R-12 refrigerant to an A/C system that requires use of R-134a refrigerant. Do not add R-134a refrigerant to an A/C system that
requires use of R- 12 refrigerant. These two types of refrigerant should never be mixed. Doing so may cause damage to A/C system.
R-134a system components
The major components of R-134a A/C system are similar to those used previously on R-12 systems. R-12 and R134a components are similar in design
and function. As a result, all Removal and Installation procedures outlined
for R-12 components can be used for R-134a components.
(Refer to operating instructions of your refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging station for proper procedures.)