2002 Mazda Tribute Owner's Manual - Page 52

Climate Controls • (Defrost)-Distributes outside air through the windshield defroster ducts. It can be used to clear ice or fog from the windshield. If the temperature is about 6°C (43°F) or higher, the air conditioner will automatically dehumidify the air to reduce fogging. Operating tips • In humid weather conditions, place the climate control system in Defrost mode before driving. This will reduce fogging on your windshield. Once the windshield has been cleared, operate the climate control system as desired. • To reduce humidity buildup inside the vehicle in cold weather conditions, don't drive with the climate control system in the OFF or MAX A/C position. • To reduce humidity buildup inside the vehicle in warm weather conditions, don't drive with the climate control system in the OFF position. • Under normal weather conditions, your vehicle's climate control system should be left in any position other than the MAX A/C or OFF when the vehicle is parked. This allows the vehicle to "breathe" through the outside air inlet duct. • Under snowy or dirty weather conditions, your vehicle's climate control system should be left in the OFF position when the vehicle is parked. This allows the climate control system to be free from contamination of outside pollutants. • If your vehicle has been parked with the windows closed during warm weather conditions, the air conditioner will perform more efficiently in cooling the vehicle if driven for two or three minutes with the windows open. This will force most of the hot, stale air out of the vehicle. Once the vehicle has been "aired out", operate the climate control system as desired. • Do not put objects under the front seat which may interfere with the airflow to the rear seats (if equipped). • Remove any snow, ice or leaves from the air intake area (at the bottom of the windshield and underneath the hood). • Do not place objects over the defroster outlets. These objects can block airflow and reduce visibility through your windshield. Avoid placing small objects on top of the instrument panel. These objects may fall down into the defroster outlets and block airflow, in addition to, damaging the climate control system. 52