Can I add refrigerant to my 1998 Dodge Caravan air conditioning system?

John Worth

How do I add refrigerant to the air conditioning system in my 1998 Dodge Caravan?

TxGreaseMonkey

I would not recommend that you do it yourself. Take it to Dodge and let them use their specialized equipment and do it properly.

John Worth

Can I have it done at a service station rather than the Dealer?

TxGreaseMonkey

I wouldn't. It's important to put a vacuum on the low pressure side, as it's being filled. I've seen disasters where someone tries saving a few dollars and doesn't go to the dealer. I always recommend taking your car to the dealer for engine, transmission, and air conditioner work.

Dr D

I respectfully disagree with txgreasemonkey on this one. I consider him to be a savy car guy. At a dealership their flat rate is probably $100/hour or more. There are many good auto techs who charge much less. Topping off a car A/C system is not rocket science. If one has a set of gauges to check for improper high/low pressures indicating clogged orifice tube or other malfunction, a good shade tree mechanic can get the job done. The reference to the vacuum I think was to pull the system down prior to charging, when a connection had been broken and the system empty.