2002 Chevrolet Malibu Owner's Manual - Page 135

Air Conditioning The air conditioner and heater work best if you keep your windows closed while using them. Your vehicle also has the flow-through ventilation system described later in this section. For normal cooling on hot days, after the vehicle has started to cool down, use the vent mode with the temperature knob in the blue area and the A/C button pressed. The system will bring in outside air and cool it. On very hot days, begin by opening the windows long enough to let hot inside air escape. This reduces the time it takes for your vehicle to cool down, which should help fuel economy. For quicker cool-down on very hot days, use the vent mode with the temperature knob all the way in the blue area and the A/C button pressed. Begin with the outside air button pressed for a few minutes, or until the vehicle begins to feel cool. Then press the recirculation button. If the recirculation setting is used for long periods of time, the air in your vehicle may become too dry. On cool, but sunny days, the sun may warm your upper body, but your lower body may not be warm enough. You can use bi-level mode with the temperature knob in the middle and the A/C button pressed. The system will bring in outside air and direct slightly warmer air to your lower body. Heating On cold days, use floor mode and outside air with the temperature knob all the way in the red area. The system will bring in outside air, heat it and send it to the floor outlets. Your vehicle has heat ducts that are directed toward the rear seat. Keep the area under the front seats clear of obstructions so the heated air can reach the rear seat passengers. If your vehicle has an engine coolant heater, you can use it to help your system provide warm air faster when it's cold outside (0_F (-18_C) or lower). An engine coolant heater warms the coolant in your engine and heating system that is used to provide heat. See "Engine Coolant Heater" in the Index. 3-4