Info - Proper Use of HVAC System to Achieve Maximum Cooling

The following procedure should be explained to customers who come into the dealership expressing dissatisfaction with the operation of the HVAC system during hot weather. This procedure will be in the next printing of the 2002 Owner's Manual as well as on an A/C Quick Reference card that will be available soon.

In order to obtain maximum cooling from the vehicle's A/C system on very hot days, follow these steps:

1. Open the windows to allow some of the hot air to escape.
2. Press the A/C button (the indicator will illuminate) on the A/C control. Set the mode switch to OUTSIDE AIR (2).
3. Put the fan control on Speed 5 and set the temperature knob to full cold by turning it counterclockwise.
4. After 90 seconds, push the RECIRCULATION button (1) (the indicator will illuminate) and close the windows.

This procedure allows the A/C system to generate cold air while venting the hotter air that is inside the vehicle. Once the vehicle achieves the desired comfort level, it is recommended you push the outside air button (the indicator will illuminate).

Important: Operating the A/C system continuously in the recirculation mode can result in very low humidity in the passenger compartment. Passengers may then experience discomfort due to dry eyes.

If the vehicle is equipped with the rear A/C option and there are rear passengers, put the rear fan control on Speed 3 until rear passenger comfort is achieved. Once the desired comfort level is reached for the rear passengers, it is recommended that the rear blower speed be reduced. Setting the rear blower speed to "R" will allow the rear passengers to control the rear blower speed and temperature setting. If there are no passengers in the rear seats, front passenger comfort is achieved more rapidly by having the rear control set to "O" or OFF.