A/C Switch - - - why ?

Discussion in 'Gen 5 Prius Main Forum' started by Don_23805, Apr 23, 2026 at 10:41 AM.

  1. Don_23805

    Don_23805 Junior Member

    Joined:
    Oct 16, 2023
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    Location:
    VA
    Vehicle:
    2023 Prius Prime
    Model:
    N/A
    My '26 PHEV Nightshade has an A/C switch. What is it for? If I set the temperature to a low setting, it's obvious that the A/C is on supplying cool air without turning the switch on. I assume that if I turn on Defrost that it will turn on cooling if necessary for humidity control, like normal vehicles. The Owner's Manual is no help, as usual.
    TIA Don in Central VA
     
  2. dicknose

    dicknose New Member

    Joined:
    Feb 8, 2026
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    Location:
    Toronto
    Vehicle:
    2024 Prius Prime
    Model:
    XSE Premium
    Don't all cars with A/C have an A/C switch? If the ambient outdoor temp is "cool" you can turn on the fan without A/C to get cool air in the cabin with minimal affect to your mileage. If its hot outside and you want cool air in the cabin, A/C needs to be turned on and you will take a hit on mileage