Davis Bellew Subaru vehicles have a reputation for being reliable and long-lasting. However, even the most well-made cars require regular maintenance and occasional repairs. That’s why many Subaru owners choose to purchase a Gold Plus Extended Warranty, which provides coverage for a wide range of repair and maintenance services.
One question that many Subaru owners may have is whether their Gold Plus Extended Warranty covers the use of 134a refrigerant in their AC system. In this article, we’ll answer that question and provide some background information about 134a refrigerant and its use in Subaru vehicles.
Understanding the Subaru Gold Plus Extended Warranty
Before we can dive into the question of whether the Gold Plus Extended Warranty covers 134a refrigerant, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of what this warranty covers. The Gold Plus Extended Warranty is the highest level of coverage available for Subaru vehicles and provides protection for almost all vehicle components except for routine maintenance items.
Some of the covered components under the Gold Plus Extended Warranty include the engine, transmission, electrical system, suspension, brakes, and steering. The specific coverage varies depending on the age and mileage of the vehicle, as well as the level of deductible chosen. However, even the most basic Gold Plus Extended Warranty offers extensive coverage and peace of mind for Subaru owners.
Does the Subaru Gold Plus Extended Warranty Cover 134a Refrigerant?
Now, let’s get to the main question: does the Subaru Gold Plus Extended Warranty cover the use of 134a refrigerant in the AC system?
The short answer is yes, the Gold Plus Extended Warranty does cover the use of 134a refrigerant in the AC system. However, there are some important things to keep in mind.
Firstly, it’s important to ensure that any repairs or maintenance related to the AC system are performed by a Subaru-certified technician. If repairs are done by an unauthorized technician, it could potentially void the warranty coverage.
Secondly, it’s worth noting that if the AC system requires repairs due to a leak or other issue, the Gold Plus Extended Warranty will cover the cost of the repair. However, if the AC system is simply low on refrigerant, the cost of adding more refrigerant is not covered under the warranty. This is because low refrigerant levels can be a symptom of a larger problem, such as a leak in the system, which would be covered by the warranty.
Understanding 134a Refrigerant
So, what exactly is 134a refrigerant, and why is it important?
Firstly, it’s worth noting that 134a refrigerant is the preferred refrigerant for Subaru vehicles and many other car models. This is because it is more environmentally friendly than older refrigerants like R-12, which have been phased out due to their harmful effects on the ozone layer.
Additionally, 134a refrigerant is more efficient and effective at cooling the AC system than R-12. This means that it can help improve the overall performance of the AC system and keep passengers comfortable on hot days.
Pros and Cons of Using 134a Refrigerant
While 134a refrigerant is generally the preferred choice for Subaru and many other vehicles, there are still some potential drawbacks to using it. Here are a few pros and cons to consider:
Pros:
- More environmentally friendly than older refrigerants
- More efficient at cooling the AC system
- Can improve overall AC system performance
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than older refrigerants
- Some older AC systems may not be compatible with 134a refrigerant and may require costly retrofits or upgrades
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is it important to use a Subaru-certified technician for AC system repairs?
A: Using a Subaru-certified technician ensures that the repairs are done correctly and according to Subaru’s standards. If repairs are done by an unauthorized technician, it could potentially void the warranty coverage.
Q: Will the Gold Plus Extended Warranty cover the cost of adding more refrigerant to the AC system?
A: If the AC system is low on refrigerant due to a leak or other issue, the cost of the repair will be covered by the warranty. However, simply adding more refrigerant to the system is not covered under the warranty.
Q: Is 134a refrigerant safe to use?
A: Yes, 134a refrigerant is safe to use and is the preferred refrigerant for Subaru and many other vehicles. It is more environmentally friendly than older refrigerants and more efficient at cooling the AC system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Subaru Gold Plus Extended Warranty does cover the use of 134a refrigerant in the AC system, as long as repairs are done by a Subaru-certified technician. 134a refrigerant is the preferred refrigerant for Subaru and many other vehicles, as it is more environmentally friendly and more efficient at cooling the AC system compared to older refrigerants. While there are some potential drawbacks to using 134a refrigerant, including the cost and compatibility issues with older AC systems, the benefits generally outweigh the cons.
