Air conditioning in Nissan Navara - one of the most loaded systems, especially if you operate a pickup truck in a hot climate or with frequent overloads. Over time, freon in the system evaporates through microscopic cracks in the seals, and its deficiency leads to increased load on the compressor, poor cooling, and even breakdowns. But before refueling, it is critically important to know exact volume of freon, which depends on the generation Navara, engine type and even configuration.
In this article we have collected current data on refrigerant volumes for all versions Nissan Navara (including NP300, D40 And D23), we discussed the nuances of choosing freon (R134a vs R1234yf), and also gave step-by-step instructions on how to independently check the level and refill the system. If you plan to service your air conditioner yourself, here you will find all the necessary information, including unique data on rare modifications with dual air conditioning (for the cabin and cargo compartment).
Freon volume in Nissan Navara by generation and engine
The amount of refrigerant in the air conditioning system Nissan Navara varies depending on:
- 🔹 Generations (D40, NP300, D23)
- 🔹 Engine type (gasoline/diesel, volume)
- 🔹 Options (single or double air conditioner)
- 🔹 Compressor type (Denso, Sanden, Valeo)
Below is a table with exact data for the most common modifications. Please note: for vehicles with double air conditioning (for example, in versions with an extended cab), the volume of freon increases by 150–200 grams.
| Generation/Model | Years of manufacture | Engine | Freon volume (g) | Freon type | Oil volume (ml) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Navara D40 | 2005–2014 | 2.5 dCi (YD25DDTi) | 550–600 | R134a | 150 (PAG46) |
| Nissan Navara D40 | 2005–2014 | 3.0 V6 (VQ40DE) | 650–700 | R134a | 180 (PAG46) |
| Nissan NP300 Navara | 2015–2023 | 2.3 dCi (YD23DDTi) | 500–550 | R1234yf | 120 (POE) |
| Nissan NP300 Navara | 2015–2023 | 2.5 petrol (QR25DE) | 580–620 | R134a | 160 (PAG46) |
| Nissan Navara D23 (European version) | 2020–2026 | 2.3 dCi (biturbo) | 480–520 | R1234yf | 100 (POE) |
⚠️ Attention: For vehicles with automatic climate system (climate control) the volume of freon can be 50–100 grams more due to additional sensors and tubes. Exact details are provided at sticker under the hood (usually on the radiator or the inside of the cap).
- R134a
- R1234yf
- I don't know
- Other
R134a vs R1234yf: what kind of freon is in your Navara?
Until 2015 in all Nissan Navara refilled with freon R134a - a time-tested refrigerant that is easy to find in any auto store. However, with the introduction of environmental standards EU F-Gas manufacturers have begun the transition to R1234yf - less harmful to the ozone layer, but more expensive and capricious to operate.
How to determine which freon is in your Navara:
- 📌 Take a look sticker under the hood — the type of refrigerant is indicated there.
- 📌 Check it out year of manufacture:
- Until 2015 - R134a.
- From 2015 (NP300 and newer) - R1234yf.
- 📌 Pay attention to cap color on service ports:
- Black/blue - R134a.
- Green/yellow - R1234yf.
⚠️ Attention: It is absolutely forbidden to fill R1234yf into a system designed for R134a! These refrigerants require different types of oils (PAG46 for R134a and POE for R1234yf), and mixing them will lead to compressor failure. If in doubt, have your dealer check it.
If your Navara 2015–2017 model year, there is a chance that it still contains R134a (transition period). In this case, the sticker under the hood will indicate compatibility with both types of freon.
How to check the freon level in a Nissan Navara yourself
Before refilling the air conditioner, you need to make sure that the problem is a lack of freon. Here 3 ways to checkwhich can be performed without specialized equipment:
- Visual inspection:
- 🔍 Check it out peephole on the receiver-dryer (if any). At normal freon levels there should be no bubbles in it.
- 🔍 Take a look air conditioner tubes for the presence of oil smudges - this is a sign of a leak.
- Cold test:
- ❄️ Start the engine, turn on the air conditioning to maximum and wait 5-10 minutes.
- ❄️ If the air blows barely cool or warm, there is not enough freon.
- ❄️ If there is cold, but weak, the problem may be clogged filter drier or faulty fan.
- Pressure check (with pressure gauge):
- 📉 Connect the gauge manifold to low pressure service port (usually with a blue cap).
- 📉 With the engine running and the air conditioning turned on, the pressure should be within 25–40 psi.
- 📉 If the pressure is below 20 psi, refueling is required.
⚠️ Attention: If you hear when you turn on the air conditioner hissing sound or compressor doesn't turn on at all - this may indicate complete freon leak or malfunction of the electromagnetic clutch. In this case, refueling without diagnostics is dangerous!
☑️ Preparing for freon testing
Step-by-step instructions: how to recharge the air conditioner in a Nissan Navara
If you are sure that the problem is a lack of freon, you can charge the system yourself. For this you will need:
- 🔧 Freon cylinder (corresponding type).
- 🔧 Gauge manifold (or refill kit for car air conditioners).
- 🔧 Thermometer (to control the air temperature from the deflectors).
- 🔧 Safety glasses and gloves.
Refueling algorithm:
- Connect pressure gauge to low pressure service port (blue cap).
- Start the engine, turn the air conditioning on maximum airflow and minimum temperature.
- Open the valve on the freon cylinder and monitor the pressure on the pressure gauge. Optimal value - 25–35 psi.
- Refill freon in small portions (50–100 grams each), controlling the temperature of the air from the deflectors. Ideal result - 5–8°C.
- After refueling, close the valve, disconnect the equipment and check the system for leaks (you can use a soap solution).
🔹 Important: If after refueling the air conditioner is unstable (either cold or warm air), the problem may be faulty compressor or clogged capacitor. In this case, professional diagnostics will be required.
What to do if you recharged freon?
If you accidentally fill in more freon than normal, the system will operate under increased pressure, which will trigger the emergency valve or damage the pipes. In this case, you need to bleed off the excess through the service port, monitoring the pressure with a pressure gauge.
Common mistakes when refilling the air conditioner in a Nissan Navara
Even experienced car owners make mistakes that can damage the air conditioning system. Here are the most common:
- ❌ Using the wrong freon (for example, R134a instead of R1234yf). This leads to compressor breakdown due to oil incompatibility.
- ❌ Refilling without vacuum. If air or moisture remains in the system, it will cause tube corrosion And freezing of moisture in the expansion valve.
- ❌ Ignoring leaks. If freon leaves faster than 2 years, there is a crack in the system. Refueling without eliminating the leak is pointless.
- ❌ Overpressure. If you fill more than normal, it will work emergency valve, and freon will be released into the atmosphere.
🔹 Advice: If after refueling the air conditioner is noisy or intermittent, check compressor belt tension And state of the electromagnetic clutch. B Nissan Navara D40 with engine YD25DDTi a common problem with clutch bearing wear, which leads to vibrations.
If after refueling the air conditioner blows cold air, but after a week it loses performance again, there is 100% a leak in the system. Without eliminating it, any refueling will be a temporary solution.
When is a complete air conditioner recharge required?
In some cases, simply refilling freon is not enough. A complete refill (with evacuation and oil change) is required if:
- 🔧 Happened complete freon leak (for example, after an accident or damage to pipes).
- 🔧 Air conditioning hasn't been turned on for more than 2 years — the oil in the system may have dried out.
- 🔧 Was produced replacing a compressor, condenser or receiver-dryer.
- 🔧 Detected in the system foreign particles (metal shavings, dirt).
The full recharge process includes:
- Pumping out residual freon and oil.
- Evacuate the system (at least 30 minutes) to remove moisture.
- Refueling new oil (type depends on freon:
PAG46for R134a,POEfor R1234yf). - Refill freon in accordance with the norm for your model.
⚠️ Attention: B Nissan NP300 Navara with engine 2.3 dCi When completely refilled, it must be replaced filter drier, since it becomes saturated with moisture and loses its properties.
Where to find service ports for refueling in Nissan Navara?
B Nissan Navara service ports for refilling freon are located in the engine compartment, but their location depends on the generation:
- 📍 D40 (2005–2014):
- Port low pressure (blue cap) - on the tube going from the compressor to the evaporator.
- Port high pressure (red cap) - on the tube from the compressor to the condenser.
- 📍 NP300 (2015–2023):
- Ports are located on right side of the radiator (if you look in the direction of travel).
- Low pressure is closer to the wing, high pressure is closer to the center.
- 📍 D23 (2020–2026):
- Ports may be hidden plastic cover (it needs to be removed).
- Cap colors are green (R1234yf) or blue (R134a).
🔹 Advice: Before connecting the equipment clean the ports of dirtto prevent debris from entering the system. Use special caps with valvesto avoid freon leakage when disconnecting.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about freon in Nissan Navara
Is it possible to refill R134a instead of R1234yf if you can’t find the required freon?
No, this is strictly prohibited! Systems under R1234yf designed for different pressures and oil types (POE). Refueling R134a will cause compressor failure and leaks. If you can't find R1234yf, contact your authorized dealer Nissan.
How often should you recharge your Navara's air conditioner?
Under normal conditions, freon evaporates to 10–15% per year. It is recommended to check the level every 2 years or when there is a noticeable deterioration in cooling. If refueling is required more often, look for leak.
What happens if you don’t charge the air conditioner at all?
If there is a lack of freon, the compressor works with increased load, which leads to:
- 🔥 Overheating and compressor jamming.
- 💧 To hit metal shavings into the system.
- 🚫 Full air conditioner breakdown (repairs will cost 3–5 times more than refueling).
Is it possible to charge the air conditioner in a Navara without a pressure gauge?
Technically it is possible, but it is highly not recommended. Without blood pressure control, you risk:
- 💥 Recharge the system (which will trigger the emergency valve).
- ❄️ Underfill, and the air conditioner will not work efficiently.
- ⚠️ Damage the compressor due to lack of oil.
The minimum set for safe refueling is a pressure gauge manifold (costs from 1,500 rubles).
Where in Moscow/St. Petersburg can you buy R1234yf freon for NP300 Navara?
In major cities R1234yf sold in:
- 🛒 Specialized car air conditioning stores (for example, "Auto-cold", "Climate-Auto").
- 🛒 Online stores (Exist.ru, Autodoc, Kufar).
- 🛒 Official dealers Nissan (but the price will be 20–30% higher than the market price).
Average price of a cylinder (500 g) — 3500–5000 rub.