[jblackburn]

As an aside the MPG the car says it gets is always off vs my calculation. Anyone else see the same?

Yes, both generations.

Also, the A/C compressor in the Cruze is variable displacement. VERY little load is placed on the engine at low cabin fan speeds; load/drag goes up with fan speed.

I would not unplug it.

 

[Jcote]

I am not going to unplug it. I was just curious if anyone has ever tested the theory. If I were to do it here I would remove the relay that controls the compressor and replace it with a relay I know does not work. Rather then unplug at the compressor. For another thing here in NB NO ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS THAT ARE NOT MATED SURVIVE A SINGLE STORM. The terminals would fall off the connector a week after a storm. The chemicals they use on the roads will corrode anything it touches.

 

[snowwy66]

My first car, a 1984 model year, ran the A/C whenever the defroster was engaged. So it’s not a new function to me - or GM.

67 olds

 

[MIHotBear]

67 olds

Of course it did. If you want to quickly clear a fogged up windshield, turning on the a/c is a no brainer as it dehumidifies. I am seeing all these misguided fools that think they should unplug the compressor in the winter to save 5 cents. I am amazed that people are that clueless. My 2015 Cruze LTZ has automatic climate control and I leave it set at 72 degrees all year round. It keeps the cabin comfortable and I don't have to deal with minutiae.

But some people are certain that they are smarter than everyone else. They are the micro-managers. No one likes micro-managers.

 

[snowwy66]

Of course it did. If you want to quickly clear a fogged up windshield, turning on the a/c is a no brainer as it dehumidifies. I am seeing all these misguided fools that think they should unplug the compressor in the winter to save 5 cents. I am amazed that people are that clueless. My 2015 Cruze LTZ has automatic climate control and I leave it set at 72 degrees all year round. It keeps the cabin comfortable and I don't have to deal with minutiae.

But some people are certain that they are smarter than everyone else. They are the micro-managers. No one likes micro-managers.

BAck when smog pumps were around. Before the carburetor got replaced with fuel injection. It was common to leave the belt off. MORE POWER SCOTTY. Some went so far to pull all the diverter valves off. Then beeched and moaned because it won't pass emissions.