High Performance Centre
What it is
Car air con works by circulating refrigerant through a compressor, condenser and evaporator. Over time, systems naturally lose a little refrigerant, and when the level drops the air gets warmer and the compressor works harder.
Which refrigerant your car uses depends on its age and make. Older cars typically use R134a, while most newer cars use R1234yf. The two are not interchangeable and need the right equipment, so it matters that the garage handles the gas your car was built for.
A regas recovers the old refrigerant, checks the system holds pressure, and recharges it to the correct amount, rather than just topping it up.
When to book it
- Warm air blowing
- Weak airflow
- Unpleasant odours
- AC not running efficiently
How we handle it
Book a slot online with your reg and choose your gas: R134a or R1234yf. The label under the bonnet usually shows which your car uses.
The leak pressure test is free. If the system is not holding gas or a component has failed, you are told what is wrong and what it will cost before any repair goes ahead.
What to expect
- Book online with your reg and choose your gas
- A free leak pressure test, then the regas
- Any leak or fault explained and priced first
- Collect with cold air and a clear explanation of the work
Questions answered
How do I know if my car uses R134a or R1234yf?
There is usually a label under the bonnet showing the refrigerant type and amount. As a rough guide, newer cars mostly use R1234yf and older ones R134a, but the label is the reliable answer.
How often should car air con be regassed?
Many manufacturers and specialists suggest every couple of years, as systems slowly lose refrigerant. If the air is weakening, it is worth doing sooner.
Why should I run the air con in winter?
Running it regularly keeps the seals lubricated and the compressor moving, and it is also the quickest way to demist windows because it dries the air.
