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 System Dye
Fluorescent refrigerant system dye is added to the refrigerant system at the factory to assist in refrigerant system leak diagnosis using a Rotunda-approved UV blacklight. It is not necessary to add additional dye to the refrigerant system before diagnosing leaks, even if a significant amount of refrigerant has been removed from the system. Additional refrigerant system dye should only be added if more than 50% of the refrigerant system lubricant capacity has been lost due to a fitting separation or hose rupture. Refer to CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION & DIAGNOSTICS -- FUSION, MILAN & MKZ (EXCEPT HYBRID) article.
For hybrid vehicles equipped with an electric compressor, additional refrigerant system dye should only be added by installing a new receiver/drier cartridge. Replacement receiver/drier cartridges include a fluorescent dye "wafer" which will dissolve after approximately one hour of continued A/C operation. Fluorescent refrigerant system dye mixed with PAG oil should never be used in hybrid vehicles with an electric A/C compressor.
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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:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.