How to Add R134 Freon to a Toyota

Toyota makes dependable sedans, cars, trucks and SUVs, and is a company with a proven track record of low-maintenance vehicles. While there are usually few, if any, major problems before you reach 100,000 miles on a Toyota vehicle, you may notice that the air conditioning begins to "warm up" over time. This could be due to a freon leak in the air conditioning unit, but luckily any home mechanic can remedy this problem with just a few minutes and minimal technical know-how.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• R134 recharge kit
• Socket wrench

1. • 1

     Locate the "Low" pressure air conditioner valve (marked with an "L") on the rear firewall of the Toyota's engine compartment.

   • 2

     Use the socket wrench to remove the valve cover and make sure the valve is free of dirt. Screw the transfer hose from the recharge kit onto the low pressure valve and use the calibration knob on the pressure dial to select the outside air temperature.

   • 3

     Clamp the other end of the hose onto the can of R134 and then tighten down the "puncture valve" on the side of the transfer line to puncture the can and release gas into the transfer line.

   • 4

     Start the car up, open the valve on the transfer line, and turn on the air conditioner. When the valve on the transfer line reaches the "Full" indicator, turn the car and air conditioner off, disconnect the recharge kit from the low pressure valve and screw the valve cover back on.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not allow the R134 gas to escape into the air, as it damages the environment.