Get your shop R1234yf-ready without overspending
Starting R-1234yf service comes down to a short list: EPA 609-certified technicians, a certified recover, recycle and recharge machine dedicated to YF, and the correct service fittings. Oil injectors, standalone refrigerant identifiers and UV dye tools help, but they can wait until your volume and budget justify them.
Natalie Dixon of Chemours and Tim Wagaman with Bosch Mobility Aftermarket suggest a clear order. Train your technicians first, then invest in R-1234yf equipment, then manage refrigerant inventory carefully. If YF vehicles are only a trickle today, buying cans instead of a full cylinder can bridge the gap until demand grows.
And demand is growing. Dixon estimates 15 million or more YF vehicles come off warranty each year. Shops that can't service them risk losing AC work, and the maintenance that comes with it, to competitors.
Watch this episode of In the Driver's Seat to learn where to spend, what you can reuse, and the hidden costs worth planning for.
About the Author
Erik ScreedenErik Screeden
Technical and Multimedia Content Director
Erik Screeden is the Technical and Multimedia Content Director for the Vehicle Service & Repair Group. Erik is an ASE Master Automobile Technician with L1, and L4 credentials, who has been in the industry for over 25 years in various capacities. During that time, Screeden was a technician. He started out at a Ford dealership and continued to several independent repair facilities as well as spent time in the specialty aftermarket at a GM-specific performance shop. After his time as a technician came to an end, Screeden transitioned into a role providing scan diagnostic and J2534 tool support. He was then able to parlay his experience as a technician and a support specialist and use that in several technical sales roles.
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