Note for handling R134a refrigerant (530i 2017-2022, 530i xDrive 2017-2022, 530e PHEV 2018-2022, 530e xDrive PHEV 2018-2022, 540i 2017-2022, 540i xDrive 2017-2022, M550i xDrive 2018-2022)
Work on the refrigerant circuit may only be carried out by experts!
Avoid all contact with liquid or gaseous R134a. Wear protective goggles and gloves when working on the refrigerant circuit.
- Follow SAFETY INFORMATION for handling r134a refrigerant.
As a gas, R134a is colorless, odorless and heavier than air. If it enters the atmosphere, this may result in an imperceptible danger of asphyxiation or in cardiac palpitations, especially in workshop pits. Ventilate rooms adequately if necessary, turn on installed extractor systems.
Store filled refrigerant pressure flasks so that they are not subject to direct sunlight or other heat sources (at maximum 45°C). Also avoid exposing them to mechanical stress (e.g. by dropping).
Do not weld or solder on to filled heating and air conditioning systems or in rooms into which R134a may have escaped. Exposure to flames or high temperatures (> 50°C) may give rise to toxic decomposition products (fluorine gas). For this reason, do not smoke either.
In the event of fire, carbon dioxide (C02 ), extinguishing powder and a sprayed water jet are deemed to be suitable extinguishing agents. Cool reservoirs at risk with a sprayed water jet (risk of bursting! ).
If the protective caps on the filler valves are difficult to open, there is a risk of injury from leaking valve inserts (high pressure).
The filled refrigerant circuit of the A/C system is subject to excess pressure. Before carrying out repairs on the A/C system, it is absolutely essential to draw off the refrigerant.
- Before conducting repairs, check the actual pressure drop on the pressure gauge of the A/C service station
R134a must be drawn off, cleaned and returned to the air conditioning using an A/C service station following the relevant operating instructions.
For a properly functioning A/C system, it is essential to have the greatest possible levels of cleanliness when working on the A/C system and the longest possible evacuation (at least 30 minutes dehumidification from refrigerant circuit) before each filling of the A/C system.
R134a absorbs very small amounts of moisture. Therefore, seal off opened pipes, air conditioning condenser, evaporator, air conditioning compressor or drier bottle immediately with plugs.
- If an A/C system has been completely drained by leakage, accident or repair, the desiccant insert must be replaced as excessive moisture may have entered the system.
With replacement parts, the plugs may only be removed immediately before the lines are connected. In the event of warranty claims, the old parts must be provided with plugs to be able to determine the cause of the damage.
Installation note:
After each refilling of an air conditioning, check that protective caps of filling valves are hand-tight. They serve as additional seals.