Auto Climate Control Question

[02540ico]

When using the auto mode for climate control, should the system automatically activate the AC when required? Mine just blows ambient temp air to cool the interior. The manual doesn't say whether or not the AC is tied into the auto mode.
Seems strange if it isn't. My '94 Cutlass Supreme convertible that I had several years ago had auto climate control that you could just set and forget. I'd leave it set at 68F, and it would hold that temp in Summer and Winter, using the AC and heat systems.

[95325i]

You have to turn on the AC by pressing the button. If you want to over come this just leave the AC button pressed all the time, it will still worm the car in the winter the only issue is that the compressor will be spinning and uses a little more gas.

[Qsilver7]

When using the auto mode for climate control, should the system automatically activate the AC when required? Mine just blows ambient temp air to cool the interior. The manual doesn't say whether or not the AC is tied into the auto mode.

The AUTO mode is for auto air distribution (the upper/dash/floor vents) and for the air/fan velocity.

The AC button (the snowflake button) activates/deactivates the function that "dehumidifies" the air. (see the separate section for AC in the image below from the owners manual)

There are also other things the system does...like the AUC (auto-recirculation mode) which detects noxious pollutants and will close the fresh air flaps, then re-open them. And there is also the "stratified" air temp dials (front dash and rear ctr console for 98=up e39s) that allows you to warm or cool the cabin of the car but yet choose to temper the air (cooler or warmer) that blows into the driver's face (to keep the driver alert on long journeys) and for the rear passengers to have some control of air temperature as well.

The AC will run the compressor until the ambient temperatures falls below 42 degrees F. And if you read the text highlighted in YELLOW...the "air conditioning system is mentioned SEPARATE from the AUTO climate control system. Again, that's why there's the SNOWFLAKE button. :)


http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/q/original/E38%20Auto%20Climate%20Control.jpg

[02540ico]

Thanks, checked that out prior to posting. Just wanted to verify. Funny they'd have an auto climate control system that doesn't control the AC. So I guess its a semi-auto climate control system. My Cutlass Supreme controlled it all. I set it at 68F, it controlled heat and AC depending on ambient temp. I also had manual control over the AC and heat. +1 to Olds.

[WhatsBFc]

everytime i start my car, my air is automatically on already..... why

[02540ico]

Set up that way in the computer. You'll have to have the dealer make changes, at least thats what I've seen posted here before.