Notice: R-12 refrigerant and R-134a refrigerant must never be mixed, even in the smallest of amounts, as they are incompatible with each other. If the refrigerants are mixed, compressor failure is likely to occur. Refer to the manufacturer instructions included with the service equipment before servicing.
The air conditioning system delivers air that has been heated or cooled and dehumidified for occupant comfort. This system also provides the following functions:
| • | Power ventilation |
| • | Windshield defrosting |
| • | Side window defogging |
During most operating conditions, the blower motor takes in the outside air through the heater and air conditioning module assembly. Vehicle forward movement forces in additional outside air.
Within the evaporator module, the blower motor pushes air through the evaporator, through the heater core, and then into the passenger compartment.
For air conditioning or defroster operation at ambient temperatures above 6°C (43°F), the refrigeration system chills the evaporator to almost freezing. As air passes through the evaporator, the air temperature drops, causing the moisture in the air to condense on the evaporator core fins. This moisture leaves the vehicle by gravity feed through a drain hole, dehumidifying the vehicle.
From the evaporator, some or all of the air may pass through the heater core, which is then warmed by the engine coolant. Any of the air that is not heated mixes with the heated air before the air enters the passenger compartment.
When you select the maximum air conditioning mode, most of the air entering the blower motor is taken from the passenger compartment, or recirculated. This air is most likely cooler than the outside air. All of the other modes use the outside air.
