[jpmccormac]

Update: See my post on 11/24/22 below for possible solution to Auto A/C

Is anyone else bewildered by the dual mode auto HVAC system?

I love everything about my XLE except the dual mode automatic HVAC system. I've read the manual sections on Auto HVAC and for the life of me I can't figure out how to get outside fresh air into the car without the car deciding it wants to blow hot or cold (AC) air. The ECO AC mode has a mind of its own and turns on the AC any time the outside air temp exceeds 75 degrees Fahrenheit (23 Celsius.)

According to page 419 of the manual [items in red are my edits):
" Eco air conditioning mode
The air conditioning is controlled with low fuel consumption prioritized such as reducing fan speed, etc.
When the outside temperature exceeds 75°F (24°C) and the air conditioning system is on
●In order to reduce the air conditioning power consumption, the air conditioning system may switch to recirculated air mode automatically. This may also reduce fuel consumption.
●Recirculated air mode is selected as a default mode when the engine switch is turned to ON."

 

[jpmccormac]

Nobody? Oh, well. Today I was at my dealer for the free 6 month checkup, LOF & tire rotation (Toyoguard benefit.) I posed the above question with my salesman. He agreed with me and said to turn off ECO mode if I want and that he personally turns whole system off unless it's very hot or very cold. YMMV.

 

[Tracy84]

Yes!!! Thank you for posting this!! I have been so busy, I haven't had time to address this issue. Every time I am driving though, I get so frustrated!

 

[jpmccormac]

Yes!!! Thank you for posting this!! I have been so busy, I haven't had time to address this issue. Every time I am driving though, I get so frustrated!

You're welcome. Update: I just found a possible fix. On page 570 of the user manual the fourth item down under Automatic air conditioning system states the owner can turn OFF the A/C auto switch operation using the audio system screen. This allows you to change the default to OFF rather than automatic. Here's the sequence in my words, not the manual's:

With vehicle running or ready to run mode:

1. Go to Menu
2. Set up
3. Vehicle
4. Vehicle Customization
5. Climate Setup
6. Auto A/C Mode
7. Select OFF

 

[Tracy84]

You're welcome. Update: I just found a possible fix. On page 570 of the user manual the fourth item down under Automatic air conditioning system states the owner can turn OFF the A/C auto switch operation using the audio system screen. This allows you to change the default to OFF rather than automatic. Here's the sequence in my words, not the manual's:

With vehicle running or ready to run mode:

1. Go to Menu
2. Set up
3. Vehicle
4. Vehicle Customization
5. Climate Setup
6. Auto A/C Mode
7. Select OFF

Thank you!! I will try this out tomorrow and report back.