
Auto translates to automatic in English, and its function varies depending on its location. This switch button is commonly found on car windows, air conditioning systems, automatic headlights, and automatic wipers. The detailed functions of the AUTO button in a car are as follows: Auto switch for automatic air conditioning: On an automatic air conditioning system, pressing the Auto switch will automatically adjust the cabin temperature and airflow. Adjusting the airflow volume, vent position, or defogger switch will cancel the automatic mode. Auto switch for wipers: If the wiper switch has an Auto setting, it means the vehicle is equipped with rain-sensing wipers. Setting the wiper to Auto mode allows it to detect the size of raindrops via a rain sensor and automatically adjust the wiper speed. Auto switch for lights: An Auto switch on the headlight control indicates automatic headlights. When set to Auto mode, the headlights use a light sensor to detect changes in ambient brightness. The headlights will automatically turn on when it gets dark outside and turn off when it's bright enough. Auto switch for windows: The Auto switch on the driver's side window control enables one-touch operation. Pressing the Auto switch all the way down and releasing it will fully open the window. Pulling the Auto switch all the way up and releasing it will fully close the window. To stop the window midway, pull or press the Auto switch in the opposite direction and release. Auto-hold switch: Located near the gear lever, the Auto-hold switch (sometimes simply labeled as Auto or marked with an "A" inside a circle) activates the automatic parking brake function. When enabled, this feature automatically applies the parking brake during temporary stops, such as at traffic lights, eliminating the need to manually engage the handbrake.

When I first started driving, I also wondered about this button. It's actually the automatic control switch for the air conditioning system. Once pressed, the entire AC system starts operating on its own. It uses sensors to automatically detect the interior temperature, compares it with the set temperature, and then adjusts the fan speed and the ratio of cool to warm air accordingly. For example, if you set it to 22 degrees and the car gets too warm, it will automatically increase the fan speed to cool down, and then reduce the speed once it's cooler to maintain the temperature. I personally love using this feature on long drives because it eliminates the need to manually adjust the AC, making things much easier. However, it's worth noting that if you notice any strange odors in automatic mode, it's best to switch to manual mode and adjust the air circulation.

Last time I test drove the car, I chatted with the salesperson about this 'Auto' button. Essentially, it turns the air conditioning into a foolproof mode. With just one press, it takes over all controls automatically: air vent direction, fan speed, and cooling intensity are all arranged clearly and logically. It's especially practical for office workers like us during commutes. In the morning rush, just press it, set the temperature to 24°C, and you won't sweat in your suit, nor will your suit get wrinkled by cold air. Some cars even allow more detailed adjustments on the central control screen, but for daily use, there's really no need to fuss over them. The only thing to note is that during heavy rain, it's better to manually activate the defogging function, as the auto mode might not react quickly enough.

Last time when I helped my cousin adjust the car air conditioning, I discovered a trick—pressing the 'auto' button makes the entire AC system operate automatically. It's especially suitable for family cars when taking kids out. Just set the temperature, and you won't need to keep adjusting it. Kids sleeping in the back seat won't be directly blown by the AC airflow. Its biggest advantage is that you don't need to monitor it constantly; the system detects temperature changes and adjusts the fan speed on its own. After using it for a few years, you'll notice it even saves more fuel compared to manual adjustments because it always controls the compressor in the most economical way, unlike us who tend to crank it up to maximum fan speed manually.


