I explained why above. I'd suggest a strongly worded memo to some guy in Germany. In addition to the "auto" light, perhaps they can add a "somewhat auto" light as well.

BTW, this is how every ACC system on the market today works.

 

I'm sure there are some systems on the market that when the auto light goes out the ACC is no longer functioning. As for it being in the manual - it's far from clear since one section suggests that lowering it more than once shuts the system off.

 

On my 2001 Pathfinder Auto merely means that the AC compressor is on, versus Econ if it's not. Even if you manually select the fan speed, Auto remained displayed unless Econ is pressed.

 

I just tried this yesterday and the fan speed doesn't change. I wanted feet and middle vents and set the temp to a nice low temp and the fan just stayed where it was.

...

the upside though is that the MINI has no trouble keeping things cool inside the car and cooling the whole thing off VERY fast with the Auto AC even in 105 degree heat out here in the DC Metro.

 

Well that's weird. Mine will increase the fan speed if I lower the temperature. My wife's Clubman does too.

My usual order of operations (though 2 and 3 can be switched):
1. Hit Auto
2. Adjust temp
3. Hit the hand and feet vent buttons
4. Enjoy

 

too bad about not being able to retrofit the acc... oh well.. at least the manual is kicking out cold air

 

With the larger inside volume and double moon roof the Countryman requires more air movement or turnover in HVAC jargon. To get it to keep up in the >100F temps we've been having you have to turn the fan control up manually and the temp one setting lower than normal..Or just leave it on MAX...Once the temp drops below 95F you can go back to the auto system and it should control jut fine...My vent outlet air temp is fine...

 

In my opinion if you don't have it you're not missing much. I don't use mine at all and have lived in two very different climants since getting my Clubman. (San Antonio and San Francisco) For me the fan speed is always too low, because I like a little more air movement regardless of the temperature. It's a personal preference, and I'm sure people that like their systems are happy with it. But I prefer the manual control.

 

I checked it again and this time the fan did indeed change speeds. I wonder if I hit something differently the first time.

or maybe it decided to remain at a constant speed