How do you know if your car uses R12 or R134A?

You can't reliably tell whether your car uses R12 or R134a refrigerant just by looking at it. There's no external marking that consistently indicates which refrigerant was originally used.

Here are the reliable ways to find out:

* Check the sticker on the underside of the hood: Many cars have a sticker in the engine compartment (often near the radiator or air conditioning components) that specifies the refrigerant type. This is the most reliable method. Look for "R12" or "R134a".

* Check your owner's manual: Your owner's manual should list the type of refrigerant used in your vehicle's AC system.

* Consult a qualified mechanic: A mechanic with AC service experience can easily identify the refrigerant type using specialized equipment. This is the most reliable method if you can't find the information elsewhere.

Important Note: R12 is an ozone-depleting substance and its use is banned in most countries. If your car uses R12, it should be converted to R134a by a qualified mechanic. Simply adding R12 is illegal and environmentally irresponsible. The conversion requires more than just a refrigerant change; it often requires changes to seals and other components.