Motor Vehicle Air Conditioning

Scientists worldwide have concluded CFC-12 (also known by the trade name Freon) and other chlorofluorocarbons deplete the ozone layer. In the United States, production of CFC-12 for air conditioning and refrigeration uses ended Dec. 31, 1995.

While new vehicles no longer use CFC-12, most vehicles built before 1994 still require its use for servicing. As a result, cars and trucks may need conversions to use an alternative refrigerant should the air conditioning develop a leak after CFC-12 is no longer available.

For more information, visit EPA's Motor Vehicle Air Conditioning Web site.

Published: March 31, 2003