Automatic Mode

The automatic HVAC system will maintain the interior temperature of the vehicle by controlling the blower motor, air temperature, mode and recirculation actuators to achieve the desired temperature. For full automatic operation, both the blower and mode switches must be in the AUTO position and the air temperature set between 19°C (66°F) and 28°C (82°F). Blower speeds will be gradually increased or decreased, and can be reduced based on vehicle speed in order to maintain airflow into the vehicle. At start up, the automatic HVAC system will use to the last settings used prior to vehicle shut down.

In cold temperatures, the automatic HVAC system will provide heat in the most efficient manner. At initial vehicle start up, the blower motor is not turned on until the coolant reaches a predetermined temperature. If the coolant does not warm up within a preset time, the blower will be activated. The HVAC system can quickly warm up the vehicle when the temperature and blower motor settings are set to maximum and outside air and floor modes are selected. Once the desired temperature is reached, the blower motor will slow down, discharge temperatures will be lowered, and the mode actuator will remain in the floor setting. The system can be placed in bi-level if the ambient temperature is near 7-10°C (45-50°F). Regardless of mode selection, some air will be diverted to the defrost setting to keep window fogging at a minimum.

If the ambient air temperature is less than 2°C (35°F) and the coolant temperature is less than 10°C (50°F), then a 75 second purge will occur. The purge is performed in order to reduce window fogging until the coolant warms up. The purge will begin as soon as the coolant temperature reaches 4°C (40°F). The mode door will move to the defrost position and the blower motor will be near half speed.

In warm temperatures, the automatic HVAC system will provide A/C in the most efficient manner. The HVAC system can quickly cool down the vehicle when the temperature is set to minimum, blower motor is set to maximum, and recirculation and vent modes are selected. Once the desired temperature is reached, the blower motor will slow down, discharge temperatures will be raised, and the mode actuator will be switched to bi-level for better passenger comfort. The recirculation actuator can be partially opened to assist in temperature control. Regardless of mode selection, some air will be diverted to the floor setting to keep occupant comfort at a maximum.