Does the 2011 Cruze have an AC button?
4 Answers
Yes, both the old and new models of the Cruze come standard with air conditioning, which includes the AC compressor switch. Below is relevant information about the Cruze: Exterior Design: The most noticeable change in the new Cruze's exterior is the alteration of the rear badges, where '330T' and '320' are used to distinguish between models equipped with the 1.4T turbocharged engine and the 1.5L engine, respectively. This makes the Cruze the second Chevrolet model after the Equinox to adopt a three-digit and letter naming system for its rear badges. Powertrain: The new car continues to be powered by the 1.5L and 1.4T engines, with maximum power outputs of 114 horsepower and 150 horsepower, respectively. In terms of the transmission system, the 1.4T model is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the 1.5L model is matched with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 6-speed manual transmission.
I remember the 2011 Cruze indeed had a button with a snowflake icon, which was the AC switch. It was integrated into the same control area as the air conditioning knob, and pressing it would light up a small indicator on the dashboard to show the compressor was activated. However, the base model might have fewer function buttons. Take a closer look at the row of buttons on the left side of the center console—there's a MODE button with a cloud and arrow symbol that also needs to be used in combination. In summer, when turning on the cold air, remember to press the AC button first before adjusting the fan speed, otherwise the air blown out may carry moisture, making the windshield particularly prone to fogging. A veteran owner reminds you to check the condition of the cabin air filter, as cars over 8 years old may experience reduced cooling efficiency.
The 2011 Cruze's A/C control panel has three buttons on the left side: the leftmost button with a car icon is the recirculation button, the middle one is the defogger button, and the right one with a snowflake symbol is the A/C button. To get cold air, first press the snowflake button, then adjust the blue temperature knob. The compressor activation logic is slightly different for high-end automatic A/C models - pressing the AUTO button will automatically turn on the A/C. However, it's important to note that this model's A/C drain tube is positioned relatively low, making it prone to clogging during rainy seasons, which can lead to water accumulation in the front passenger footwell.
The owner's manual clearly states there's an AC switch. It's located in the three-button area to the left of the air conditioning knob group below the radio - the button with a white snowflake symbol. In manual AC versions, pressing it illuminates a green light and activates the compressor. A practical tip: Turn off AC in winter for fuel savings when heating, but remember to engage the compressor for defogging to remove humidity. Also, a reminder for veteran Cruze owners: After 2013, GM switched to HFO-1234yf refrigerant - older models still require R134a when recharging the system.
