How long does an R12 AC charge last?
 

Hi, the PO of my car had an R12 recharge done in 10/2001, at about 163k miles, the car is now at 183k miles. I'm starting to wonder if the car needs a recharge at this point. The AC blows hard, but the air just does not seem all that cold. Granted, this is in the Miami/Ft.Lauderdale heat..

Anywhere from 2 seconds to 20 years. You can probably figure 5 years with a good charge and the old hoses.

How long does an R12 AC charge last?

It depends on how big the leak is.

I don't think mileage has much to do with it. If the hoses are the original, no-barrier type, I think they will leak no matter what. The AC gurus will correct me if I'm wrong.

I'm guessing you're due for a recharge.

I predict your next charge will last about 3 weeks.

i just charged mine today at the shop.. $55.33 for a lb. of 'freeze-12' with the labor ($24/lb. for the stuff alone). my car gets charged every year..i have the newer sanden compressor and older non-barrier hoses, but guess what..come winter new barrier hoses, receiver/drier are on my 'buy this for me' xmas list.. ;) my charge will make it through the summer to answer your question.
ryan

I kinda remember something about "topping off the system" every 2 years was normal when the car was new! Throw a set of service gauges on it and check it against a P&T chart (forget about the site glass in the drier).

I read some post about Rennaire or something having a set of barrier hoses for $300.00 give or take and with a "lifetime warranty" ? Gee, let's see a lifetime is the right time if you can do in in my time. Better yet, they say most local shops can make the same set for less than $200.00 Do I hear $100.00?
How about $50.00? Going, going Gone!