Christopher_B - I think it is possible to convert to R134a. And yeah, it might be worth it ... if you have a leak. I don't believe the AUTO climate control system varies the A/C system hardware nor varies the phase change process, it just mucks up the controls of heat blending and fan speed.
I agree with your concerns for shock to system components from frequent on/off. Since I now realize this system is a 1234YF system, I will not be trying to check or correct my refrigerant level ... as that stuff is "spensive." Depending on what I see on a new Mirage, I may let a dealer play with those refrigerants. I'd say my car is perfectly fine ... I just want to make sure about the compressor noise I'm hearing. It's not obnoxious, but it is noticeable ... to me.
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View my fuel log 2020 Mirage ES 1.2 manual: 42.5 mpg (US) ... 18.1 km/L ... 5.5 L/100 km ... 51.0 mpg (Imp)