Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Refrigerant Leak Testing
General Motors vehicles are now manufactured with fluorescent dye installed directly into the air conditioning (A/C) system.
The fluorescent dye mixes and flows with the polyalkylene glycol (PAG) oil throughout the refrigerant system.
Verifying some passive leaks may require using the GE-39400 - A Halogen Leak Detector, even though the A/C system contains fluorescent dye.
The only time that adding additional fluorescent dye is required is after flushing the A/C system.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.