A/C Request (Non-Hybrid)

When an A/C request is received by the PCM, the PCM engages the A/C clutch relay when all of the following conditions are met:

• Excessively high or low refrigerant pressure from the A/C pressure transducer is not detected.
• Engine coolant temperature conditions are within normal parameters.
• Ambient air temperature is above approximately 0°C (32.0°F).
• Wide Open Throttle (WOT) condition is not present.
• Evaporator temperature is above approximately 2°C (35.6°F).
• Engine torque conditions are within normal parameters.
• Battery state of charge conditions are within normal parameters.

Compressor control and the evaporator temperature are a function of many parameters, not just a straight on/off, to avoid freezing the evaporator. The PCM monitors multiple temperature sensors for correlation including, but not limited to, AAT, CACT, CHT, ECT, IAT, IAT2, MAF, MAPT, TCB and TCIPT Parameter Identifications (PIDs) (as applicable). The PCM runs this logic after an engine off and a calibrated soak period, typically 6 to 8 hours. This soak period allows the Ambient Air Temperature (AAT) sensor and the other temperature sensors to stabilize and not differ by greater than a calibrated value, typically 18°C (32.4°F). If a sensor input is found to be reporting a temperature imbalance the PCM does not allow the A/C clutch to engage.

The PCM monitors the discharge pressure measured by the A/C pressure transducer. The PCM interrupts A/C compressor operation in the event the A/C pressure transducer indicates high system discharge pressures. It is also used to sense low charge conditions. If the pressure is below a predetermined value for a given ambient temperature, the PCM does not allow the A/C clutch to engage.