This question has been bugging me for some time now, and I thought to myself, “Okay, I’ll write about it on my blog.” It’s interesting how a seemingly simple topic like using the auto feature of a car’s HVAC system can elicit such strong and varied opinions. It just goes to show that even the most seemingly straightforward decisions can have different perspectives and considerations even though I think there is nothing to debate at all.

Let me set the background. You get into your car in either the heat of the summer or the frigid cold of the winter and you want the temperature in the car to change as quickly as possible. What do you do? Here the arguments for the two sides of this heated and important issue. But first a little background information.

A Primer on a Car’s HVAC System and the Great Debate:

The auto feature on a car’s HVAC system is designed to automatically control the temperature, fan speed, and airflow based on the desired temperature set by the driver. Some argue that using the auto feature provides convenience and ensures a comfortable driving experience without the need for constant adjustment. On the other hand, some believe that manually adjusting the settings allows for more control and customization.

Auto Or Manual?

One possible reason for the divergent opinions could be personal preference and individual comfort levels. Some people may prefer a consistently controlled and automatic climate inside their car, while others may enjoy the flexibility of adjusting the temperature and airflow according to their immediate needs.

Additionally, the climate and weather conditions in different regions can also play a role in the decision. In extreme weather conditions, such as very hot or cold temperatures, it may be more beneficial to manually adjust the settings to quickly achieve the desired temperature.

Before I give you my “two cents” on the subject, let’s delve a little deeper into the positions of the two sides of the debate.

Pushing the Fan Button Manually:

While the auto feature of a car’s HVAC system offers convenience and benefits, some individuals may still prefer manual control for the following reasons:

1. Customization: Manual control allows individuals to have precise control over the temperature, fan speed, and airflow. They can adjust these settings based on their personal preferences and comfort levels, tailoring the HVAC system to their specific needs.
2. Instant Response: Manual control allows for immediate changes in the HVAC settings. Some individuals may prefer to have full control over the system and make quick adjustments as desired, without relying on the auto feature to gradually adapt to the changes. Why would the car company’s put a “low” setting or a “high” setting on the temperature gauge in the car if it didn’t give the driver the maximum output?
3. Sensory Feedback: Manual control allows individuals to feel the changes in temperature and airflow directly. Some people find this sensory feedback helpful in gauging the effectiveness of the HVAC system and making adjustments accordingly.
4. Personal Preference: Some individuals simply prefer the sense of control and involvement that comes with manually adjusting the HVAC settings. They may enjoy the process of finding the perfect temperature and fan speed combination that suits their preferences.

Ask the Experts:

I know nothing about cars so I began to see if I could search on line for some expert opinions.

I found this article on a web site called “Broken Secrets” written by a cat who rebuilds cars for a living. He explains that putting the fan on high to heat up the car slows the heating process down rather than just leaving the thermostat on “Auto”. If you want more information go ahead and open the link below.

Warm Your Car Up Faster

Ok so is the answer different when it comes to cooling off the car on a hot summer day? The answer is “yes”, maybe a little. The higher fan speed might get the car a little cooler faster but the “Auto” feature should do the job for you in a timely fashion.

Consumer Reports composed a you tube video on the subject and here is the link:

Finally, I shared a link to a very comprehensive article on the subject. Who would have thought there would be so much written on such a trivial matter? I can understand if there were numerous articles on how to solve world hunger or create world peace, but AC settings in a car? It just shows that some people might have too much time on their hands.

https://storables.com/articles/what-does-auto-mean-on-ac/

My Two Cents: Use the Automatic Thermostat Feature on Your Car and Set it and Forget it:

It has never made sense to me to ever change the fan speed in my car manually. Why would the car companies offer the auto feature if pushing the fan speed button manually is more effective? There are some reasons, but I believe they are rather lame, for not using the “auto” feature in the car. Therefore, I am going to remain an “auto” guy.

Vanilla or Chocolate?

Now that I have shed some light on this very important debate topic, I can now spend my time on more important issues, like determining which flavor of ice cream is the best: vanilla or chocolate. I can delve into that “hot topic” another time!

Thanks for reading!