[bcrdukes]

I "think" R12A is no longer commercially available in Canada although I'm sure Bob, George and Greg at Back Alley AC Repairs can recharge it for you. The common practice is to perform the R134a conversion/retrofit. You can still go to an AC shop in the US to refill R12A.

R134a is what's being used in most cars, I believe 94 and up? (Somebody with more knowledge can correct me.) There is debate about the kits sold at Canadian Tire. Some say it's a band-aid fix. If your AC system is leaking, constantly recharging it with the kits isn't going to solve the problem. If you have a leak in the system, it's best to have it properly repaired.

But for some people, they don't give a shit and whatever works so whatever floats your boat / YMMV.