REFRIGERANT SYSTEM SERVICE CAUTIONS

2016 – MX-5 – HVAC

If an insufficient refrigerant level is detected at troubleshooting, do not charge (add) the refrigerant. Because an accurate amount of refrigerant cannot be determined from the pressure indicated on the manifold gauge, never charge the refrigerant. If there is too much or too little refrigerant from the refilling, there may be secondary problems such as damage to the refrigerant cycle parts, or a decrease of cooling performance. Therefore, if it is determined that the refrigerant level is insufficient, completely remove refrigerant from the refrigerant cycle and refill with refrigerant to the specified amount.

Always use the following specified compressor oil (PAG oil) for the vehicle. If compressor oil other than the specified type is used, the refrigerant performance may be lowered or the refrigerant system parts may be damaged.

Do not spill compressor oil on the vehicle. A drop of compressor oil on the vehicle surface can eat away at the paint. If compressor oil gets on the vehicle, wipe it off immediately.
Compressor oil (PAG oil) has a higher moisture absorption efficiency than the previously used mineral oil. If moisture mixes with the compressor oil, the refrigerant system could be damaged. Therefore, install caps immediately after using the compressor oil or removing refrigerant system parts to prevent moisture absorption.

If the refrigerant gas is completely discharged from the system for reasons such as a malfunction during A/C operation, repair or replace the malfunctioning part, charge the refrigerant to the specified amount and always add 60 ml {60 cc, 2.0 US fl oz} of compressor oil. If the compressor oil is not adequately replenished, the A/C compressor may quickly deteriorate, abnormal noise may develop, cooling performance may be affected or, in the worst case, the A/C compressor may seize.