The heating, cooling, and ventilation in the vehicle can be controlled with this system. The vehicle also has a flow-through ventilation system described later in this section.
If this vehicle is a Two-mode Hybrid, see the Two-mode Hybrid manual for more information.
Fan Control
AUTO
Defrost
Recirculation
REAR
Air Delivery Mode Control
Driver Temperature Control
Display
Power Button
Rear Window Defogger
Air Conditioning
PASS
Passenger Temperature Control
The driver and passenger side temperature buttons are used to adjust the temperature of the air coming through the system on the driver or passenger's side of the vehicle. The temperature can be adjusted even if the system is turned off. This is possible since outside air always flows through the system as the vehicle is moving forward unless it is set to recirculation mode. See "Recirculation" later in this section.
Press the + or - buttons to increase or decrease the cabin temperature. The driver side or passenger side temperature display shows the temperature setting decreasing or increasing.
The passenger's temperature setting can be set to match the driver's temperature setting by pressing the PASS button and turning off the PASS indicator. When the passenger's temperature setting is set different than the driver's setting, the indicator on the PASS button illuminates and both the driver side and passenger side temperature displays are shown.
Use the steps below to place the entire system in automatic mode:
When AUTO is selected, the display will change to show the current temperature(s) and AUTO will be lit on the display. The current delivery mode and fan speed will also be displayed for approximately 5 seconds.
When AUTO is selected, the air conditioning operation and air inlet will be automatically controlled. The air conditioning compressor will run when the outside temperature is over about 40°F (4°C). The air inlet will normally be set to outside air. If it is hot outside, the air inlet may automatically switch to recirculate inside air to help quickly cool down the vehicle. The light on the button comes on in recirculation.
To find your comfort setting, start with a 74°F (23°C) temperature setting and allow about 20 minutes for the system to regulate. Use the driver's or passenger's temperature buttons to adjust the temperature setting as necessary. If a temperature setting of 60°F (15°C) is chosen, the system remains at the maximum cooling setting. If a temperature setting of 90°F (32°C) is chosen, the system remains at the maximum heat setting. Choosing either maximum setting will not cause the vehicle to heat or cool any faster.
Do not to cover the solar sensor located on the top of the instrument panel near the windshield. This sensor regulates air temperature based on sun load and also turns on the headlamps. For more information on the solar sensor, see "Sensors" later in this section.
To avoid blowing cold air in cold weather, the system will delay turning on the fan until warm air is available. The length of delay depends on the engine coolant temperature. Pressing the fan switch will override this delay and change the fan to a selected speed.
The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window.
(Rear Window Defogger): Press to turn the rear window defogger on or off. It automatically turns off several minutes after it has been activated. The defogger can also be turned off by turning off the engine. Do not drive the vehicle until all the windows are clear.Notice: Do not use a razor blade or sharp object to clear the inside rear window. Do not adhere anything to the defogger grid lines in the rear glass. These actions may damage the rear defogger. Repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
Heated Mirrors: For vehicles with heated outside rearview mirrors, the mirrors heat to help clear fog or frost from the surface of the mirror when the rear window defog button is pressed. See Outside Power Mirrors.The solar sensor, located in the defrost grille in the middle of the instrument panel, monitors the solar heat. Do not cover the solar sensor or the system will not work properly.
The interior temperature sensors located in the headliner above the driver side seat and if equipped, in the headliner above the second row seats measure the temperature of the air inside the vehicle.
There is also an exterior temperature sensor located behind the front grille. This sensor reads the outside air temperature and helps maintain the temperature inside the vehicle. Any cover on the front of the vehicle could cause a false reading in the displayed temperature.
The climate control system uses the information from these sensors to maintain your comfort setting by adjusting the outlet temperature, fan speed, and the air delivery mode. The system may also supply cooler air to the side of the vehicle facing the sun. The recirculation mode will also be used as needed to maintain cool outlet temperatures.