WHAT EVERY DIYER SHOULD KNOW ABOUT NEW R-134A REPLACEMENT REFRIGERANT

LEARN HOW TO SERVICE YOUR OWN AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM - Save Money and Avoid Contaminating Your System

The latest EPA rule states that auto makers must discontinue using R-134a in new vehicles built in the US for model year 2021, and 2025 for exports. Today, most US auto makers have decided to use R-1234yf in their vehicles to meet strict EPA emission standards. 

Existing vehicles using R-134a will not be impacted and R-134a will continue to be produced for servicing older systems, however be prepared for price increases and a gradual phase-down in production. 

Keep your eyes peeled for new R-134a replacement blends in many US automotive stores and warehouses. They are causing lots of confusion among DIYers who are concerned about contaminating their systems and expensive repair bills. 

Buyers beware! 

R-134a is not the same as new R-134a replacement blend. R-134a is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerant gas and is not flammable. However, R-134a replacement blend (isobutane/propane - also known as liquefied petroleum gas or LPG) is a hydrocarbon (HC) gas that is extremely flammable. R-134a replacement is legal for use only in R-134a systems under EPA regulations. 

Watch this video by Repair Geek to help understand DIYers frustration with this new replacement refrigerant...

It is important to avoid mixing R-134a replacement with the genuine R-134a.

For example -

ZeroR is an EPA approved replacement sold on Amazon that contains natural gas and is environmentally friendly. Regardless of claims, the Clean Air Act prohibits releasing refrigerants into the atmosphere. Doing so may have legal repercussions and is therefore not advised. See documentation - 

https://diyparts.com/docs/how-to-instructions/installation-instructions-zeror-ac-kits/

Use Safety Data Sheets (SDS) by EPA, OSHA and DOT to Identify R-134a Refrigerant and Replacement Blends...

Go to "Google" - look-up "refrigerant/companyname" + "safety data sheet..." See popular examples below:

National Refrigerants, Inc (NRI) - Safety Data Sheet - https://refrigerants.com/wp-content/uploads/SDS-R134a.pdf

Enviro-Safe 134a Replacement with Dye 6 oz  - Safety Data Sheet - https://www.es-refrigerants.com/docs/39352_173.pdf

ZeroR A/C Refrigerant Replacement 6 oz - Safety Data Sheet - https://diyparts.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/ZeroR-Z134-SDS.pdf

Super Tech R‑134a Refrigerant by Walmart - Branded and supplied by National Refrigerants, Inc – Safety Data Sheet https://refrigerants.com/wp-content/uploads/SDS-R134a.pdf

What would happen if you accidentally mixed R-134a replacement with original R-134a?

Nothing at first! 

1. The A/C system would cool as usual, and then performance will drop and cool intermittently. 

2. R-134a PAG oil will foam and lose lubrication. 

3. Moisture will cause contamination and create acids and sludge deposits. 

4. Oil will break-down and lose viscosity and damage rubber seals, leading to refrigerant leaks. 

5. Hydrocarbon refrigerant causes PAG oil to become increasingly flammable and creates fire hazards.

Note: Shop may refuse to service your A/C system in order to prevent contaminated oil and refrigerant from mixing with their recovery machines. 

Note: Recovery of mixed gas can become expensive and cost several thousand dollars to flush contaminated refrigerant from your system (compressor, orifice tube, drier and others) and properly dispose the mixture. 

If your system already contains R-134a and PAG oil: 

Do NOT add ZeroR or any other hydrocarbon-based refrigerant.

"Top off" with pure R-134a and compatible PAG oil (PAG 46, 100, or 150 - see vehicle specs).

If you want to switch to ZeroR, you must: 
1) Fully evacuate the system
2) Flush all old oil, and 
3) Replace PAG oil with compatible synthetic ester oil (POE)

Follow these instructions when using All ZeroR AC Refrigerant Kits - 
https://diyparts.com/docs/how-to-instructions/installation-instructions-zeror-ac-kits/

BECOME AN A/C PROFESSIONAL AND GET STARTED WITH YOUR EPA 609 CERTIFICATION - USE THESE FREE STUDY MATERIALS, WORKSHEETS AND PRACTICE TESTS
Watch this 30-minute YouTube video to familiarize yourself with EPA 609 Certification... 609 Cert Crash Course by McCuistian

Download FREE MVAC Study Guide with Answers to Worksheets and Practice Tests (not actual 609 Certification Test) 

Download FREE MVAC Worksheets and Practice Tests
EPA609_Test1.pdf

EPA609_Test2.pdf

EPA609_Test3.pdf

Take the 609 Certification Exam with ESCO - CLICK HERE
Take the 609 Certification Exam with ASE Campus - CLICK HERE

Not affiliated with Amazon, ASE, DOT, EPA, ESCO, OSHA or any automotive agency... 

Freestuffinder.org is for informational use only...

Some ChatGPT references included...

 

FOURTH OF JULY - Correct Way to Display the Flag - Independence Day 2025

Do You Know the Correct Way to Display the American Flag?

Choose A, B, C or D -

Answer: C.

"When displayed either horizontally or vertically against a wall, the union should be uppermost and to the flag's own right, that is, to the observer's left. When displayed in a window, the flag should be displayed in the same way, with the union or blue field to the left of the observer in the street" - https://www.legion.org/advocacy/flag-advocacy/flag-code

PAYOUT - FACEBOOK META $725 MILLION CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY CHECK...?

Facebook Meta users in the U.S. between May 24, 2007 and Dec. 22, 2022 who completed the claim form and were declared eligible during the final approval hearing will receive their part of the $725 million Class Action Settlement.

According to Forbes, 17.7 million Facebook users filed a valid claim and will receive a payout through PayPal, Zelle, Venmo, prepaid Mastercard or a physical check.

Here are the UPDATES from the Facebook User Privacy Settlement website as of May 27, 2025...

The distribution of settlement benefits will commence in August 2025 and will continue over the following 10 weeks (read the entire notice on the website) -  

https://facebookuserprivacysettlement.com/

• Estimates are that each claimant will receive $30 on average...
• Payout amounts will vary depending on Facebook users who had accounts the longest...

Visit the Official Facebook (Meta) Settlement website... 

https://facebookuserprivacysettlement.com/

References:

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/facebook-class-action-lawsuit-settlement/

https://dataconomy.com/2023/09/08/you-may-get-just-30-from-the-725-million-facebook-settlement/

CLAIM YOUR PORTION TODAY!

 

Not Affiliated with Facebook (Meta) or Any Agency or Publisher in This Blog...

Freestuffinder is for Informational Use Only...

Little Rock’s Juneteenth 2025 Celebration

 

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865 - the day Union troops reached Galveston, Texas to enforce Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation two and a half years after the proclamation to free the last group of enslaved people. 

Juneteenth in Little Rock celebrates freedom, resilience, and the community. Check-out the many FREE Juneteenth activities happening Friday, June 20 through Saturday, June 21, 2025...

Secrets Revealed - How to Program Your TPMS Sensors Without Expensive Tools! Save Money Doing It Yourself!

It is estimated that 50 percent of all drivers ignore or delay servicing their Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Many realize that TPMS repairs are expensive and can easily wipe-out their monthly budget (YES, THAT'S TRUE!). Today, you will learn DIY tips to save money on TPMS repairs. You will also learn how to  PROGRAM TPMS sensors without any special tools.  

Good news! 

The TREAD Act of 2007 requires manufacturers to "build-in" all vehicles assessible TPMS service procedures - like reset buttons, ignition cycles, or driving sequences to avoid expensive shop repairs and service tools. 

That's right! 

STOP paying shops to PROGRAM and RESET (activate) your TPMS sensors and Do-It-Yourself (DIY)!

What Should I Do If the TMPS Light Comes On? Simple! Check your tire pressure FIRST! If the light comes on while driving and remains steady, this indicates that your tire pressure is 25 percent below recommended inflation pressure. This is critically low and you should inspect your tires using a tire pressure gauge. This may be evident by bulging tire sidewalls. 

Tire pressure can quickly drop below TPMS threshold if the tire is punctured or significant changes occurs with the weather. Cold weather or excessively hot weather can cause a sudden drop or increase in tire air pressures. Watch the video below as ChrisFix explains how temperature affect TPMS operation...

To turn OFF the TPMS warning light - inflate your tires to the recommended pressure found on the driver door placard and then reset the TPMS. Some TPMS systems will reset automatically. Other systems may require activation. Consult your vehicle owner's manual. 

What Should I Do If the TPMS Light Remain ON or Flashes After Checking Tire Pressure and Resetting the System? 

Don't panic! This simply means there may be a sensor problem (usually a dead battery inside the sensor) or TPMS malfunction. A flashing TPMS warning light may also mean mis-matched tire pressures. Tire  pressure should be adjusted to within 1-2 psi of each other. Finally, sensor damage from recent tire work will also cause the TPMS light to flash.

There are two types of TPMS sensors...

• Direct TPMS (most common): Uses radio-frequency (RF) sensors inside each wheel (315 MHz or 433 MHz) - they are battery powered, valve-stem mounted sensors that transmit real-time data to the ECM. 

• Indirect TPMS (older models): Uses wheel speed sensors (ABS-based) to detect pressure loss.

When purchasing TPMS sensors, select Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) sensors that are PROGRAMMED to your specific vehicle's make and model. They are ready to install in your wheels right out the box. They will typically RESET or RELEARN tire position and write sensor ID codes to the ECM when the system is activated through a driving cycle, reset button, or series of ignition cycles using the vehicle's information system.

What's Inside a Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor? (TPMS) by Cars Simplified - Click on Photo to Play YouTube Video

To save money and bypass expensive TPMS tools, DIYers should avoid aftermarket and universal sensors that require PROGRAMMING. These sensors must be matched with the correct IDs and s

et to the proper frequency before being installed in the wheel. They require a scan tool that can copy information from the original sensor so that a clone can be made. 

Comments: DIYers should leave aftermarket and programmable sensors to the professionals and stick to OEM sensors (e.g., Schrader, VDO) that are pre-programmed for specific vehicles.

General TPMS Reset Steps

• Inflate tires to placard pressure (listed on the driver’s door jamb)
• Locate the TPMS reset button (often under the steering wheel, in the glovebox, or via infotainment menus)
• Follow ignition sequences (e.g., turning the key to "ON" without starting the engine).
• Drive the vehicle (some systems require 10-20 minutes at 25+ mph to recalibrate).

How to program cheap eBay/Amazon TPMS without a scan tool! by TomsFoolery - 

Click Here to Play YouTube Video

Comments: My last auto part purchased on 5/5/2025 was NEW OEM 56029398AB 68241067AB FITS CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE TIRE PRESSURE SENSOR worked perfectly right out of the box. The TPMS warning light turned OFF after 10 minutes of driving. All tires pressures were visible in the dash information system and the reset worked perfectly.

Vehicle - Specific Procedures *

1. Toyota/Lexus

Toyota Tacoma (2016–Present):

Turn ignition to "ON," press and hold the TPMS reset button under the steering wheel until the light blinks three times. Drive above 25 mph for 10 minutes.

Lexus ES (2019–Present):

Use the multi-information display to navigate to "Vehicle Settings > TPMS > Set Pressure." Hold "OK" to initialize, then drive for 10-20 minutes.

2. Ford

Ford EcoSport:

Inflate tires, turn ignition to "ON," and press the hazard light button six times. The horn will chirp, confirming reset mode. Drive at 20+ mph for 2 minutes.

3. Honda

Honda City/CR-V:

With tires inflated, go to "Vehicle Settings" on the infotainment screen. Select "TPMS Calibration" and follow prompts. Drive normally for 30 minutes.

4. BMW

BMW 3 Series (2019–Present):

Indirect TPMS models reset via iDrive: Navigate to "Vehicle Status > Tire Pressure Monitor > Reset." Drive 5-10 miles to recalibrate.

5. Hyundai/Kia

Hyundai Venue/Kia Sonet:

Press the TPMS reset button (located near the steering column) for 3-5 seconds until the warning light blinks. Drive for 20 minutes above 30 mph.

6. General Motors (Chevrolet, GMC)

Chevrolet Silverado:

Turn ignition to "ON," press the lock/unlock buttons on the key fob simultaneously until the horn chirps. Release, then press "Relearn" in the driver’s menu. Activate each sensor by lowering tire pressure until the horn honks.

7. Nissan

Nissan Magnite:

Indirect TPMS systems reset by driving at 16-50 mph for 10 minutes. Ensure tires are properly inflated beforehand.

8. Subaru

Subaru Outback:

Turn ignition to "ON," press the TPMS reset button (under the dash) until the light flashes three times. Drive for 30+ minutes at 40–65 mph.

9. Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep and Ram TPMS Reset Procedures

Automatic Relearn for Most Models - Many Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram vehicles equipped with the Schrader TPMS sensor (common in 2010–2014 models) automatically reprogram after driving for 10+ minutes above 15 mph.

How to install a tpms yourself! by UncleMarks DIY Automotive Fix it Channel - Click Here to Play YouTube Video

Sensor replacement: New OEM sensors self-register during driving. Aftermarket sensors may require a TPMS tool for activation.

Comments: My 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo Sport Utility 4-Door 3.6L 3604CC 220 Cu. In. V6 FLEX DOHC Naturally Aspirated uses the 433 MHz sensor. A local tire shop broke my sensor during a tire replacement and installed a 315 MHz sensor that I was told would work! NO IT DIDN'T WORK! All post-2015 JGC continue using 433 MHz sensors with no reported frequency changes. 

Battery Life on TPMS sensors forJGC generally last 5-10 years or more, however vehicle owners should be proactive and replace all sensors if TPMS warnings presist. 

Always use TPMS valve stem caps to prevent moisture and dirt from entering valve stems which could damage sensors. These caps are elongated and contains O-ring seals. Regular valve stem caps should not be used as substitutes. 

10. Watch this YouTube video: How to Change / Install a Tire without Breaking the Tire TPMS Pressure Sensor. No Damage by Weekend Hobby Mechanic - Click Here

 * - Some Info from ChatGPT

Sonic $0.99 Corn Dogs - Today Only 4/16/2025

 

Sonic $0.99 Corn Dogs, Today Only 

 4/16/2025

 

                      

Pick up Some Corn Dogs on Your Way Home! 

Sonic’s Corn Dogs are Made with All-beef Hot Dogs and Wrapped in Crispy Batter made with Cornmeal...  

sonicmenuspot.com

$0.99 Discount will Apply at Checkout... 

https://www.sonicdrivein.com/

 

Not Affiliated with Sonic

KRISPY KREME FREE DOZEN ON TAX DAY - APRIL 15, 2025 ONLY

 

It's About Time for a Tax-Break on Tax Day at Krispy Kreme! 

Today Only (April 15, 2025), Buy any Dozen Doughnuts In-store at Regular Price, Get 2nd Dozen Original Glazed Doughnuts for your State's Sales Tax...

When Ordering Online, Use Promotional Code TAXBREAK for Pickup or Delivery - Get a 2nd Original Glazed Dozen for Free...

There's a Limit of 2 Dozen per Customer while In-store, and a Maximum of 1 Free Dozen per Order Online...

Get Additional Details at - https://www.krispykreme.com/offers/taxday

Not Affiliated with Krispy Kreme