In Auto mode, is the A/C compressor always on? Even when it doesn't need to bring the temp down? And so, in the winter, must you hit the A/C off button to get old fashion heating?

 

ive heard it both ways. i believe that its always on. i think ive read somewhere where they said it was only on when it was needed(im sure someone else here has a definite answer)

to answer your third question, A/C doesnt only mean cold air, A/C means it is dehumidifying the air into the cabin of the car.hence the reason we turn AC on foggy windows. so you dont have to hit AC off in the winter for warm air

FYI: the TL doesnt let out cold air during the winter until the car is warmed up, then the warm air comes out.

 

Yes, of course. It just seems that in winter it would silly to load the engine with the compressor on when you didn't need it at all for normal heating