just a quick question is it better to keep the a/c on all the time or switch it off now and again oh which setting Econ/Auto

Cheers

Its up too you mate, the only thing it effects is the mpg(and bhp as it take some to power the compressor), and not by much, try it for a tank with and with out it on, that will give you some idea.

Tom

Cheers tom will do:thumbup:

I thought under full power demand the AC cut out :confused:

I think it's a bit of a myth that use of the A/C vastly increases fuel consumption. Yes the compressor is running when the system is on, and that is belt driven by the engine. The compressor pulley is on an electromagnetic clutch which switches on and off as required. The amount of energy this consumes when switched on will be no more than the extra energy required to overcome the increased air resistance when driving with the windows open. So as I see it it's six and two threes.

The air conditioning system uses a refrigerant and a lubricant combined (R134a). Failure to run the system at all will cause the system seals to harden, and that leads to leaks, and then the system will have to be repaired and re-gassed. I reckon it's better overall to run the system on all the time, or at least very often more on than off.....

I don't think mines ever off, at least not intenionally. I don't think it makes any noticeable diffference to fuel use.

I don't think mines ever off, at least not intenionally. I don't think it makes any noticeable diffference to fuel use.

Ditto.

I have tried it both ways & can't find any noticeable difference.

me too, i had the AC on constantly for a 900mile drive, and i still got 34mpg. (and some of that was 120mph cruising on autobahns, so not too shabby).

makes naff all difference

I'd agree; with automatic Climate Control the easiest and most fuel efficient thing to do is select automatic, choose a temperature, and ignore it.