There is a local, very popular auto mechanic here in Orlando on WDBO AM580 who recommends ICE32 for every car A/C system. They charge $99. Is it worth it? Claim is cooler A/C and longer compressor life. Just wondering if this is snake oil or actually helps. Website for ICE32 claims better fuel economy as well. Thank you.
Probably not. If your A/C is working fine, don't go putting that kind of thing into it. If the claims were true, the engineers would probably have put it in the vehicle from the factory (less compressor wear, presumably because it doesn't need to engage as often would slightly boost MPG ratings, which they are all about doing, thanks to the EPA).
The system is designed to handle one kind of refrigerant, stick to it. Incorrect refrigerant can mess with computerized systems; they were programmed to use a specific kind, and all of their sensors assume the system is filled with that one. There are charts that the system is programmed with, in order to maintain the right pressure and temperature profiles.
We also don't know how well the system's PAG oil mixes with the additive, the evaporator could ice up, the condenser could be overpressurized by the compressor... lots of bad possibilities.
Bunk, $99 bunk.
If your AC system is working fine, I would not change a thing. You can also bet if it truly was effective that by now Scotty would have mentioned it in his YouTube videos.
