2008 Toyota Prius Road Test

That gives me an idea. How about an iPod-style 'click wheel' on the MFD to control the hvac settings? Fan speed, temperature, distribution, and percentage of fresh air could all be controlled this way.

Even straight touch-screen 'sliders' would be a big improvement over the current buttons, and all of them could probably fit on one screen.

 

I think the idea is to return to the goodness that was the first generation Prius, with actual controls that you can adjust by feel without having to take your eyes off the road. Sliders and a clickwheel on the MFD are potentially even worse than the trainwreck HVAC control setup that the Prius has now.

 

just go with the nav and push the button, say "temperature 70 degrees" boom your done. Unless you don't like it that the auto/ac is running..

 

actually, I never even mess with the temperature. But I did read earlier that the compressor might run even when the temp is low outside? I mean.. I don't hear it run like it does in the summer, the little electric whir sound. (comparable to that of a bread-maker?!) anyways.. yeah suggestions?

 

Which is why I like the HVAC controls on my FJ so much. I never have to take my eyes off the road, just reach down for a knob and turn it to the desired effect

True enough, my Prius allows temp control on the steering wheel, but to adjust fan speed or air distribution is a PITA. At least there is a Defrost button on the wheel, so if the MFD poops out you can at least deice the windshield

 

THe compressor oil will be too slugish once the temps are much below freezing. There is a temp sensor in addition to the hi/lo switches on the lines, so the compressor will be locked out in cold temps

If you have a heated garage like I do, then the compressor could still briefly run. On my Prius I got into the habit of selecting the HVAC page and manually turning off the A/C.

My FJ will automatically run the A/C when the selector is in Defrost or Defrost/Floor. Poking the A/C button has no effect, in Defrost a FJ owner has no control over compressor operation. Until the temp sensor realized it was freezing cold outside, I had to leave the temp selector on Max Hot to avoid freezing inside.

I downloaded the service manual and quickly solved my A/C problem with the FJ: I pulled out the A/C relay under the hood. I hope I remember to put it back in when the weather turns warm next Spring

Assuming I haven't lost the A/C relay

 

Haha, that was pretty cool. Just pull out the relay

 

This does happen with other car manufacturers designs, the AC compressor is used for defrost function even at low outside temperatures.
And on the Prius, almost everything is computer controlled, not need for analog controls. Remember, today days, we are dealing with an almost 10 years concept/design of our cars.
Lets hope that the new version of the Toyota Prius will bring us unprecedented enhancements, like seat height adjustment and a PLUG......