How to Add Refrigerant to Your Car by Yourself?
2 Answers
Connect the refrigerant gauge to the air conditioning system and perform a vacuum process. Select low-pressure vacuum for 3 minutes, then tighten the low-pressure gauge switch after the time is up. Next, you can connect the refrigerant canister for filling. If you're unsure about how many kilograms to add, simply refer to the pressure value displayed on the refrigerant gauge.
As an experienced car enthusiast who frequently tinkers with vehicles, I've had my fair share of DIY refrigerant recharging. Here's a basic rundown of the steps. First, check if the AC system needs refrigerant—weak cooling might indicate a leak. You'll need a DIY recharge kit, typically available at auto parts stores, which includes a pressure gauge and R134a refrigerant cans. Safety first—wear gloves and goggles to protect against skin contact with the refrigerant. Locate the low-pressure service port under the hood (usually marked with a blue cap), clean it, and attach the charging hose. Start the engine, set the AC to max fan speed and lowest temperature, then slowly add refrigerant while monitoring the pressure gauge—don't exceed the green zone, as overcharging can damage the compressor. Last time I rushed it, pressure spiked and refrigerant leaked everywhere, wasting my effort. After finishing, test cooling performance to ensure system balance. Honestly though, DIY recharging is risky—it's easy to mess up the lines or miss leaks. A friend of mine recharged his system only to have cooling issues again soon after. If you lack experience, I recommend visiting a professional shop—they use proper equipment to detect leaks, recover refrigerant safely, and handle everything efficiently. The service cost is reasonable, and it's not worth risking major mistakes over minor savings.
