Question regarding Civic hybrid HVAC

[thallanor]

I have read a couple conflicting things regarding the Civic hybrid HVAC. Would someone be able to verify whether or not the system is operated on electrical or not? I am wondering if it makes sense to get a remote starter in Canada. I was thinking though that even if it is electrical, I'd still want the vehicle to have a couple minutes to get the windows defrosted anyway.

Still curious though. :)

[spinner]

It's mostly electrical, except that the A/C can also use the engine for input and that's self-regulated. I think your best bet is a block heater and some pipe insulation to block some of the front grille.

Are you aware of how climate control does a number of thoughtful things on a cold start? At the beginning, while the engine is cool, blower speed is minimized to reduce cold air being pumped into the cabin. As the engine warms up, the warming air is redirected to the windshield to help keep it clear. Warmer still, air starts to circulate normally around the cabin. If that isn't good enough, then the windshield defroster will pump out the hottest air possible (towards the windshield).

[thallanor]

Originally Posted by spinner

It's mostly electrical, except that the A/C can also use the engine for input and that's self-regulated. I think your best bet is a block heater and some pipe insulation to block some of the front grille.

Are you aware of how climate control does a number of thoughtful things on a cold start? At the beginning, while the engine is cool, blower speed is minimized to reduce cold air being pumped into the cabin. As the engine warms up, the warming air is redirected to the windshield to help keep it clear. Warmer still, air starts to circulate normally around the cabin. If that isn't good enough, then the windshield defroster will pump out the hottest air possible (towards the windshield).

I know that the Civic hybrid has auto climate control, so I thought it might operate like that - I'm used to it in my current vehicle and love it. No more having freezing air blasted in my face.

I'll definitely need a block heater - I don't think I've even seen a vehicle on the lot without one unless it was an import from the US.

I suppose I could simply hold off on the remote starter for a couple months into winter and see how things work on their own. I am a bit antsy to get an alarm system soon though, due to the preference of the Civic by thieves, and if I need a remote starter, I'd prefer one of the integrated starter and alarm units.

Thanks for your input - whether the remote starter is needed or not, it's still great to hear how neat some of the gadgets in the hybrid work. :)

[spinner]

The Civic Hybrid already has an alarm system. It's just not mentioned in the brochures: See Security System, page 144 Plus it has the requisite immobilizer, though it is not the same standard as recommended by the Insurance Bureau of Canada.

Other details: The Canadian Civic Hybrid includes heated side-mirrors (activated with the rear window defrost) and washer fluid low sensor and larger reservoir, while the American Civic Hybrid has remote trunk opening on the key fob. I like that the washer fluid cap includes a dipstick.

[thallanor]

Originally Posted by spinner

The Civic Hybrid already has an alarm system. It's just not mentioned in the brochures: See Security System, page 144 Plus it has the requisite immobilizer, though it is not the same standard as recommended by the Insurance Bureau of Canada.

Other details: The Canadian Civic Hybrid includes heated side-mirrors (activated with the rear window defrost) and washer fluid low sensor and larger reservoir, while the American Civic Hybrid has remote trunk opening on the key fob. I like that the washer fluid cap includes a dipstick.

That is great information! I suspected that the Civic had some sort of factory alarm because when I was looking at aftermarket models, they required the override kit. I am a gadget nut which is why I was looking at aftermarket alarms, especially the Viper 7900 with remote start. I've always preferred two-way remotes and the display on this one is incredible.

It is also interesting to note the differences between Canadian and American models that you have pointed out. I might have to see about retrofitting in the remote trunk release though - should be easy enough. :)

Thanks tons for your help. :)