Tracer Dye Leak Detection

NOTE: Mazda vehicles are produced with R-134a Leak Tracer Dye incorporated into the A/C system. The location of leaks can be pinpointed by the bright yellow-green glow of the tracer dye. Since more than one leak can exist, always inspect each component.




1. Check for leaks using a 120-watt UV spot lamp.
2. Scan all components, fittings and lines of the A/C system.
3. After the leak is repaired, remove any traces of leak dye with a general purpose oil solvent.




4. Verify the repair by operating the system for a short time and inspecting with the UV spot lamp.

Tracer Dye Injection

NOTE: System pressure should be between 413 - 551 kPa (60 - 80 psi) at 24 °C (75 °F) with the engine off.

1. Install the Manifold Gauge Set or a recovery station.




2. Turn the valve on the fluorescent tracer dye injector all the way to the left to close the valve.




3. Fill the degas bottle with 7 ml (0.25 ounce) of R-134a Fluorescent Tracer Dye.




4. Install the injector between the low-side quick disconnect and the vehicle low-pressure service gauge port valve.
5. Open all quick disconnect valves and charge the refrigerant system. See AIR CONDITIONING (A/C) SYSTEM EVACUATION AND CHARGING.
6. When system charging is complete, recover the refrigerant from the dye injector.

NOTE: Only connect the dye-injector to the Manifold Gauge Set or the charging/recovery station when dye is to be injected. The dye injector has a one-way check valve that will prevent system refrigerant recovery and evacuation.

7. Remove the dye injector from the low-side quick disconnect valve.