The problem is that the AC compressor runs off the engine's accessory belt, so the engine has to be running whenever the AC decides it needs to be colder. (Leave the MAX button off, and set the knob to AUTO to minimize this.) So, a lot of times when the car would normally be in stealth mode (which is what gives such great city mileage), the engine has to run anyway.
You can try to override this manually by turning off the A/C button everytime your car would normally be in stealth during your commute (stopped, coasting, cruising on level or downhill roads), and then turn it back on whenever the engine would normally be on (starting out, accelerating). Of course, this is a very manual process.
Or, you can trade your 2003 for a 2004 when they come out. The 2004s have an electric AC compressor that doesn't require the engine to be on.
Does anyone know of any other (less manual) ways to minimize AC usage of the engine?
Douglas (2002 Silver, Wisconsin)