2001 Pontiac Aztek Owner's Manual - Page 208

Air Conditioning On very hot days, your vehicle will cool down more quickly and economically if you open the windows long enough to let hot, inside air escape. For all settings, adjust the temperature knob and fan speed as desired. To get maximum cooling or a quick cool-down on very hot days, press the A/C and RECIRCULATION buttons (the lights will glow) and move the temperature knob down (toward the blue area). Then, adjust the mode knob to direct the air to the desired location. This setting should not be used for long periods of time because the air may become too cold and dry. Push the A/C button again (the light will go off) to turn off the air conditioning. When the air conditioner compressor is on, you may sometimes notice slight changes in your vehicle's engine performance and power. This is normal. The system is designed to help fuel economy while it maintains the desired cooling level. The air conditioner removes moisture from the air, so you may sometimes notice water dripping from under your vehicle's engine compartment when it is idling or after it has been turned off. This is normal. Heating Move the temperature knob up (toward the red area) to warm the air. In the LOWER mode, outside air will be brought in and sent through the floor outlets. The heater works best if you keep your windows closed while using it. The BI-LEVEL setting is designed for use on sunny days when the air is only moderately warm or cool. On days like these, the sun may adequately warm your upper body, but your lower body may not be warm enough. For the best results, move the temperature knob to the middle position, and then adjust it for comfort. Your vehicle has a computer controlled transaxle designed to warm up the engine faster when the outside temperature is 35_F (2_C) or colder. You may notice that the transaxle will shift at a higher vehicle speed until the engine is warmed up. This is a normal condition designed to provide heat to the passenger compartment and defrost the windows more quickly. If you have the optional engine coolant heater and use it during cold weather, 0_F (-18_C) or lower, your heating system will provide heat more quickly because the engine coolant is already warmed. See "Engine Coolant Heater" in the Index. 3-8