Hey Jagsters,

On the screen when I click 'Climate' I see the option for 'Econ'. What does 'Econ' mode do? Next, when I click on 'Auto' on the dial, what is that doing?

Thanks in advance.

 

From the workshop manual:

When A/C is selected ('Econ' off) the ATC module maintains the evaporator at an operating temperature that varies with the cabin cooling requirements. If the requirement for cooled air decreases, the ATC module raises the evaporator operating temperature by reducing the flow of refrigerant provided by the A/C compressor.

NOTE: The ATC module closely controls the rate of temperature increase to avoid introducing moisture into the cabin.

If the requirement for cooled air increases, the ATC module lowers the evaporator operating temperature by increasing the flow of refrigerant provided by the A/C compressor.

When economy mode is selected by pressing the 'Econ' TSD soft button, the compressor current signal supplied by the ATC module holds the A/C compressor solenoid valve in the minimum flow position, effectively switching off the A/C function, no cooling of the intake air will take place. The minimum output air temperature from the system will be ambient air temperature plus any heat pick up in the air intake path.

 

Let's make it simple: when you tap the ECON button you turn the compressor OFF, thus in theory saving fuel. The AUTO button is an easy way of putting the climate control into automatic operation, regulating the fan speed and other functions to reach and maintain the temperature you have selected. You can cancel the automatic fan speed control by rotating that AUTO knob - this gives you manual control over fan speed but does not cancel the compressor nor the temperature regulation.

 

Thank you both for chiming in.

 

Almost - 'Econ' switches it to minimum, but it does keep turning. That means it doesn't contribute any cooling, but keeping it spinning avoids the historic problem of a/c compressors seizing up or seals deteriorating because the compressor was completely off and immobile.

 

My compressor seized up and believe me you don't want that!!

 

What caused it to seize up?