Auto Thermostat and Air Conditioner Button

[gorman9]

Concerning the 4th Generation climate controls, I have a question about the air conditioner. When I hit the auto button to regulate a set temperature like a thermostat, the ac light turns on whether the car will be working to heat up or cool the cabin. When I am using the function to heat the cabin, I always hit the AC button to turn off the light as I fear I may be wasting gas to run the AC. Is this necessary to keep the AC from running or does it stay off unless it is needed regardless of whether the AC light is on or not?

 

[chaz]

theres many threads on this, heres a few. http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/77523-c-only-blows-cold-air-lo-setting.html http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-g...gen-t4rs/38094-air-conditioning-settings.html http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/12059-ac-stereo-question.html http://www.toyota-4runner.org/problems-warranty-issues/18213-06-sr5-air-conditioning-issue.html http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/89339-c-temperature-question-compressor-cycling.html

 

[Koz]

The only reason the A/C runs in cold weather is to defrost/defog the windows. If defrost is not required, running the compressor is a waste of energy.

Koz

 

[Mark86]

Sometimes the interior could get a bit damp if you don't use the A/C compressor. I usually leave it on during damp weather. I also heard people say that you should run the compressor every so often in the winter (not sure if it is a myth).