Operating and Air-Conditioning Unit, Front
Operating and Air-Conditioning Unit (OAU, front) 4-Zone System
The influence of the Carrera GT can be seen in the center console. The idea to transfer almost all of the switches from the switch panel to the center console simplifies operation for the driver. The most important functions are sorted into function groups for fast, uncomplicated and intuitive operation.
- The driver's inputs are evaluated by these controls (buttons and sliders) in the operating and air-conditioning unit and forwarded to the relevant control units in the various function groups.
- The operating and air-conditioning unit also regulates and controls all the heating and air-conditioning system components required for cabin air conditioning. Feedback is provided through the control panel (e.g. LED button lights up/display at the front).
- A distinction can be made between the following versions:
a. OAU with automatic 2-zone adjustment
Automatic adjustment (left/right) with different temperature, air flows and air distribution for driver and passengers
b. OAU with automatic 4-zone adjustment
This automatic adjustment also enables "single seat" air conditioning with independent temperature, air flow and air distribution control for all four seats.
A second OAU is used to operate these functions in the rear. Both OAUs are connected via the LIN bus.
Operating and Air-Conditioning Unit (OAU, front) 4-Zone System
Anti-Mist Control ("Auto Defrost")
An anti-mist control function is also available for the first time in the Panamera in automatic mode. As part of this function, a sensor records the humidity in the vehicle. The sensor for anti-mist control is located at the base of the rearview mirror.
With manual windshield defrosting (defroster), the air supply to the rear is cut off automatically in "defrost mode" to achieve maximum defrosting efficiency in the 4-zone system. OFF appears on the rear OAU display. In the 2-zone system, the windshield is defrosted with maximum efficiency when the air vents in the rear are closed.
- When outside temperatures are less than 27 °F. (-3 °C.) or the intake air temperature is less than 36 °F. (2 °C.), the compressor is switched off automatically.
- The heated rear window/door mirror heating function is available when the engine is running (indicator light in the button is illuminated). Depending on the outside temperature, the heating switches off automatically after approx. 5 to 20 minutes. The heating can be switched back on by pressing the button again.
The heated rear window/door mirror heating function is available up to an outside temperature of 86 °F. (30 °C.).
Air-Recirculation Control
The outside air/fresh air supply is interrupted. If the air-conditioning compressor is switched off manually or automatically, air-recirculation mode ends after approx. 3 minutes).
Automatic Air-Recirculation Control
The air-recirculation mode is adjusted automatically depending on the air quality (air quality sensor). Automatic air-recirculation mode can be switched on and off. Anti-mist control terminates air-recirculation control if necessary.
Terminating the air-recirculation control when the compressor is switched off and the anti-mist control (measuring the humidity) prevent the windows from misting. The recommended operating mode is automatic air-recirculation mode (default setting).
When the outside temperature is less than 50 °F. (10 °C.), air recirculation mode is deactivated automatically to prevent the windows from misting. The maximum recirculation period request by the air quality sensor is 14 minutes.
The air moisture sensor is an integrated component of the rain-light-moisture sensor. This is located at the base of the rearview mirror and detects:
- Precipitation events for wiping cycle requirements
- The light sensor (light/dark) for driving light requirements
- Humidity for clearing misted windows
MONO Mode ("MONO" button)
All air-conditioned areas depend on the setting of the driver's air-conditioned area. The three displays change their values.
AC MAX Mode ("AC MAX" button)
In AC MAX mode, the passenger compartment is cooled at maximum power (no automatic mode). In MONO mode, the indicator light is illuminated until the MONO button is pressed again. The values that are set are maintained for all areas (no memory for the original settings). MONO mode is also exited if a setting in an air-conditioned area (not the driver's area) is changed.
In AC MAX mode in a 4-zone system (when the indicator light is illuminated on the button), maximum cooling power is focused on the two areas in the front. The air conditioned areas in the rear are deactivated automatically to achieve this increase in cooling power. OFF appears on the rear OAU display.
The following conditions are automatically set for rapid cooling:
- Most of the air (air flow) is routed to the passenger air vents in the switch panel
- Maximum fan speed
- Coldest possible temperature ("LO" appears on the front display)
- Air-recirculation mode
Residual Engine Heat Utilization ("AUTO REST" button)
The residual heat of the engine can be used to heat the interior for up to 20 minutes after the ignition has been switched off. The indicator light on the button lights up in REST mode. The settings for the air-conditioning system (e.g. fan speed) cannot be changed manually.
NOTE: If the battery voltage is too low, REST mode is restricted initially and then switched off.
Setting and Adjusting Climate Control For Rear Areas With The Front Operator Control Unit
Changing the air-conditioned areas at the rear with the front operating and air-conditioning unit:
1. "AUTO REAR" button
Press the button for approx. 2 seconds. In REAR mode, the word REAR appears on the display.
2. "MONO" button
For more information, see MONO mode.
The REAR mode function switches off automatically approx. 4 seconds after the last settings are configured. REAR mode can also be switched off manually. To do this, press the "AUTO REAR" button in the front OAU for approx. 2 seconds.
NOTE:
- The rear OAU can also be switched on/off using the child protection button "AA" (driver's door). A lock symbol appears on the display.
- The power window buttons on the rear doors and the control panel (all function groups) on the center console can be deactivated by pressing the safety button (child protection) in the keypad on the driver's door.