Automated Air Conditioning

[79sunrunner]

One of the neatest yet unnecessary items I've had in my Jaguar XJ8 and Fiat 500, is the auto A/C button. My question is, does the AC compressor stay connected on these cars at all times when Auto is selected on the dashboard? I notice when I do press auto, the A/C light does come on, but not sure if it is on stand by, or if it is on at all times just for the cool air to be directed into the cab when needed.

I guess one way to check is the look into the engine bay when the motor is running tomorrow. Its funny after owning the Fiat for so long, I never bothered see where the compressor was.

I also understand that manufactures all have different programming methods, and I expect different opinions and observations/facts.

 

[JHZR2]

What does the owners manual say?

 

[Propflux01]

More than likely, Yes. Most new compressors are the variable displacement type, for this very purpose.

 

[eljefino]

If any remnants of chrysler are involved in the decision making the AC will be on near all the time.

 

[JetStar]

Originally Posted By: Propflux01
More than likely, Yes. Most new compressors are the variable displacement type, for this very purpose.


I didn't know they were doing this. It might explain why on my Wifes Saturn Sky the AC absolutely kills the acceleration (what little it has), but on her new Scion TC you don't notice it at all.
Hijacking concluded

 

[hattaresguy]

It depends on the system, also most systems dump the compressor when WOT is called for.


Generally with automatic climate control which I love BTW you just set it and forget it.

 

[Vikas]

My experience is that if the ambient is over 50F, the auto setting will cycle the A/C when you ask inside air to be at 75F. I have never understood why.

 

[2009Edge]

It dehumidifies the air thus eliminating the condensation on the windows.

 

[CBR.worm]

One of my cars - it was probably a Nissan or Toyota, said in the manual that the compressor would run anytime the Auto mode was selected and the ambient temp was over 38f. It would also run anytime you manually set the air to recirculate or defrost - regardless of the A/C switch.

On my current infinitis you can have auto selected and manually turn off the A/C and still have it maintain temperature as long as only heat is req'd.