'08 LX - AC controls are not responsive

[Dan Lee]

I don't usually touch the AC controls - I set the temp and put it into Auto mode. I usually don't even change the temp setting.

But I tried to change temp settings today and the AC controls were unresponsive. I couldn't turn it on / off. I couldn't change it to Manual mode from Auto. I couldn't change the temp or fan speed or vent mode. I tried the on screen touch controls and they would respond to touch but wouldn't actual change modes or anything. The system is working - it's trying to maintain temp and the fan seems to be in automatic mode (to maintain temp). I just can't change anything, including activating the defrosters.

I didn't test thoroughly but other non-AC controls seems to function okay (ie - map, audio, etc). It seems like only the AC controls are unresponsive - again, the screen touch buttons seems to acknowledge touches but do not take any other action. The temperature buttons, both driver and passenger sides, do nothing - completely unresponsive.

This has persisted through several engine on/off cycles.

Any ideas? Is it in some weird mode that I accidently set somehow? Or is something broken? Suggestions?

Thanks!

 

[Texas200n100]

I have a 2013 LC with 190k miles whose command center module has become glitchy. Same symptoms as your AC controls but the entire system; nav, AC, audio, phone, gauges, lights shuts down for a few seconds and then boots back up. The engine has stalled a few times so it is getting worse. It recurs every few minutes and it is more prevalent if the Bluetooth is connected to a phone. I am taking it for a scan and possible a software update, if it can be performed by my mechanic. If the module needs to be replaced, I'll be looking for a used one. I'll post results as it may or may not be relevant to yours. Good luck.

 

[Dan Lee]

Thanks - sounds like your issue is more severe. Hopefully my issue is not progressive in nature and the issues end up being the same. But would like to know what your issue ends up being and what the resolution was. If it's just a reboot / reset of sorts, perhaps the resolution could apply here even if the issue is a bit different.

I've read somewhere that low battery charge may cause gremlin like issues with electronics. Although my battery is a few years old, it's on a battery tender most of the time and seems to be working okay - no issues with starting at all.

 

[Texas200n100]

good points. My mechanic put it on a tester/computer this morning and it had a bunch of communication codes but the gremlins stayed away during my 15 mile drive over to the shop. he cleared the codes and they did not reappear. yet. so maybe the reboot did the trick. They replaced the drive belt a few weeks ago and the gremlins (I have officially stolen your term!) arrived after that. But same as yours, the battery and charging system are working fine. These newer 200's have entirely too much tech in them, in my opinion. Control modules and sensors for everything, making the diagnostic process difficult. job security for the good mechanics out there. Thanks for your comments.

 

[Dan Lee]

Quick update. Today, the gremlins seem to have left the building. Everything is working as normal. Go figure. Watch item.

 

[Texas200n100]

interesting. go figure indeed. My A/C will not turn off with the touch screen but will work in Auto mode fine. Good luck!

 

[Leaky2014]

Quick update. Today, the gremlins seem to have left the building. Everything is working as normal. Go figure. Watch item.

Sometimes when the gremlins stop acting up it's because they dried up...
I would watch for water leaks while watching for the gremlins.

 

[Dan Lee]

I’ll keep that in mind. Next time we have a good rain, I’ll drive it around and see if it pours.