I just bought a 2004 A4 and I'm having a problem figuring out how to turn on the ac. I read the manual and searched here and google and it seems like I'm the only person dumb enough not to know how to turn on ac. Is it as simple as turning the temp low because there isn't an ac button to press. Any help guys, I know it's a dumb question but I'm just use to pressing ac button to turn it on.

 

Well, if your 2004 A4 is anything like my A4 you should have an Auto function, which will automatically. There should also be a manual button that looks like... I believe a frost sign? Correct me if I'm wrong. Next time I go for a drive I'll be sure to check and let you know.


-Nick

 

I'm not familiar with these controls, but how does the auto work? Do I need to set a temp and press auto for it to automatically keep that temp? I don't see a frost button on my console, but maybe I'm not looking hard enough, but I also checked the manual and there's no frost lookalike button. I know it's a stupid question but I tried to look for answers and I've tried to play around with it but I can't seem to find out how to turn on the AC.

 

I usually roll down the windows so people can see my gorgeous face but other then that i just lower the temp to whatever i fancy at the time.

 

Unfortunately my face isn't gorgeous so I need to keep the windows up and limo tint it =(. By lowering the temperature does it actually work as an air conditioner, or is it a fan blowing air, because there IS a difference, like a fan vs an AC unit at home . I know it's winter still and there's no need for AC right now but I just wanted how things worked.

 

"Auto" works just like your home thermostat. The car HVAC computer will call upon heat, AC or fresh air to maintain that temp. if you select a different fan speed or select different air flow vents, the "Auto" will disengage but the AC will still be called upon if set temp is lower than actual inside temp. There may also be an ECON button (Economy). Activating that will prevent the AC compressor from operating. You'll save a bit on fuel, but no AC and foggy windows, etc. You should be able to hear/feel the AC compressor kicking in if windows are down. Since it's winter, you may want to try it in an underground parking garage for a minute to see.

 

Okay, so If I set the temp to 19 and press auto and its like 30 degrees outside, it will automatically detect that it's too hot and AC will kick in to cool the car to 19 degrees?

 

yes, if all is in proper working order.

 

Haha everyone is gorgeous lol, anyways i never actually used the auto function on the car i always lowered the temp to low, and i felt cool air coming in, i just assumed this was the AC kicking in , but ok2000A8 seems to know more about it then me haha :P so i'd take his advice

 

One more comment. Most people with these systems that I know simply leave the "Auto" function on all the time, 365 days/year and merely adjust temp setting to where it feels comfortable. I went for years without taking system off Auto. Just set temp to 22C for winter and 23C for summer. Sometimes minor 0.5C adjustments are required depending on sunshine, clothing, etc.