I MEANT FAHRENHEIT. CX5 2025 vehicle here. It’s winter in Texas, but daytime temps are staying above 50°F. In the mornings (40s°F), I use the heater when leaving for work. During the day, when the car is full of people, I’d like to use the AC. However, on more than two occasions, I noticed the AC doesn’t seem to work. Is it a feature that it won’t turn on if it’s cold outside? Or should I get my car checked out? My car is only three months old.
Water freezes at 0°C. 50°C would be pretty hot.
Weston said:
Water freezes at 0°C. 50°C would be pretty hot.
Oops, I meant Fahrenheit.
Weston said:
Water freezes at 0°C. 50°C would be pretty hot.
Oops, I meant Fahrenheit.
AC systems usually stop working automatically below freezing. That said, most vehicles will still use the AC for defogging the windows. Check your owner’s manual—it should explain this. Too many car models have different systems, so it’s best to confirm there.
Why are you using Celsius if you’re in the US?
Vesper said:
Why are you using Celsius if you’re in the US?
I meant Fahrenheit lol.
Your AC can run at any temperature, even with the heat on. If you’re using defrost, the AC usually kicks on to help clear the windows, but it might not show the AC symbol in some cars. Could that be what’s happening? Also, is your car a PHEV or MHEV? AC helps dry the air, which reduces window fog.
If it’s under 60°F outside, you’ll need to set the temp to ‘LO.’ Otherwise, your system will try to reach the temperature you set. For example, if you set it to 61°F and it’s 50°F outside, it’ll blow warm air to bring the cabin up to 61°F. It works similarly to a home HVAC system.
@Marsden
Ugh, so this is just how newer systems work now? I’m still getting used to my car. I drove a 2008 Toyota for almost 15 years. I thought if I set it to 69°F, it would just blow air at that temp. Thanks for explaining—it clears up my confusion.
Your AC should work no matter the temperature. It sounds like something might be wrong.
Here’s a link to the climate control section for the 2025 CX-50. It might help you figure out what’s happening.
I have a 2022 CX-5, and there’s a button that can turn the AC off without you realizing it. It’ll still blow air but not cold air. I think the button says ‘AC,’ but I’m not 100% sure.
Are you sure you’re not accidentally hitting a button that disables the AC? Sometimes the controls can be tricky if you’re not familiar with them.
Oak said:
Are you sure you’re not accidentally hitting a button that disables the AC? Sometimes the controls can be tricky if you’re not familiar with them.
Yeah, 50°F is pretty mild. If it’s not working, maybe it’s a software setting or a defect?