Chevrolet 2004 Malibu Owner's Manual page 142

Use the steps below to place the entire system in
automatic mode:
1. Place the fan knob and the mode knob to the
AUTO position.
The display will now show the current set
temperature. When auto is selected, the air
conditioning operation and air inlet will be
automatically controlled. The air conditioning
compressor will run when the outside temperature
is over about 40°F (4°C). The air inlet will normally
be set to outside air. If it's hot outside, the air
inlet may automatically switch to recirculate inside
air to help quickly cool down your vehicle.
2. Set the temperature.
To find your comfort setting, start with an initial
temperature setting and allow about 20 minutes for
the system to regulate. Press the up or down arrow
temperature buttons to adjust the temperature
setting as necessary. If you choose the temperature
setting of 60°F (15°C) the system will remain at
the maximum cooling setting. If you choose the
temperature setting of 90°F (32°C) the system will
remain at the maximum heat setting. Choosing either
maximum setting will not cause the vehicle to heat
or cool any faster.
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Be careful not to cover the sensor located on the
top of the instrument panel near the windshield.
This sensor regulates air temperature based on sun
load, and also turns on your headlamps.
Also be careful not to cover the sensor grille on
the lower right side of the climate control faceplate.
This senses the inside vehicle temperature
needed for proper regulation.
To avoid blowing cold air at start-up in cold weather,
the system will delay turning on the fan until
warm air is available. The length of delay depends
on the engine coolant temperature. Turning the
fan knob will override this delay and change the
fan to a selected speed.
If your vehicle has the remote start feature, the climate
control display will initially show "AS" in place of the
temperature to indicate the remote start has been
activated. The system will automatically regulate the
temperature.