I know this was covered for the 07/08 fits but I havnt seen it mentioned on the 09.
Anyway the compressor kicks on in defrost mode and just like the 07/08 you cant turn it off.

 

Wasn't there some special way to deactivate the AC coming on with the defroster in the 07-08 models?

 

I thought all cars kicked on the A/C (if equipped) with defrost -- helps dry the air out before it hits the windshield.

 

It's a pretty common arrangement.
It also preserves the compressor seals by cycling it in the off season.
That and dry air are two good reasons to leave well enough alone.
Moon

ETA-
Don't know if it's true of the Honda, but some vehicles don't run the compressor if the temp is below freezing and you turn on the defrost.
M

 

On the GD3 there was an electrical connector on the back of the vent select dial. Just popped that off and no AC with defrost. May be similar process on the '09.

 

When its raining I use the a/c and the heater at the same time, this will remove the moisture from the inside the the glass. The defroster will turn on the ac to remove moisture from the inside of the windshield..ac does two things, cool and dehumidfy....

 

I understand the concept of the defrost. My point is, unlike most cars, you can not push the a/c button to disengage the compressor while in defrost mode.
This was a big issue on the 07 08 fits because people were concerned that driving for extended periods, or even when idling, in the defrost mode was using more gas with the compressor on.
It doesnt concern me but I just wanted people to know this has not changed from the previous model....

 

^If i'm not mistaken, i believe it's the other way around; that in most cars, you cannot turn off the a/c while using defrost.

 

I think what GR8SHAG was saying is that traditionally, the AC was only on when the AC button was pressed. Regardless of vent mode, if you wanted the compressor off you could push the AC button to turn it off. You guys are saying the same thing.

Personally I'd prefer the car not try to outhink me when it comes to defrosting. It's not often in my cars that I need the additional dehumidifying effect of the AC while in defrost mode. And when I do, I can turn it on. But now manufacturers design to the lowest common denominator of understanding (like temp gauges that never fluctuate) and makes everyone use the AC in defrost mode 100% of the time.

Not a huge deal to me. If it ends up bugging me I'll consider disabling it.

 

txmatt you are correct.
I just checked my 99 civic si and when you turn to defrost the A/C comes on. You hit the A/C button and it goes off. The fit does not allow you to do this.
I know people with the first gen. fit figured out how to unplug this feature so Im sure someone will do the same with the 09.

 

My first air-conditioned car was a '78 Scirocco. My windows started to fog in a Florida rainstorm. Not knowing any better, I switched OFF the AC, immediately fogging the entire windshield at 70 mph. The anal pucker factor was considerable...
Having the compressor cycle when you ask for defrost isn't such a bad thing when there's lots more to worry about while you're driving.
Agreed that being able to shut off the compressor if you choose is a better idea.
Also, having a A/C control that engages in any ventilation setting is very much an import thing. Tho' it may well be changing, Detroit iron often (all the Jeeps did) have an A/C side of the vent control.
Moon

 

Pop off the rectangular panel just above the 12 v power. You have to lift it from the bottom (that's where the clips are).

Then on the drivers side, you can barely see the plug into the rotary selector (had to have my head right under the opening you made with the panel off). I couldn't get my hand in there - but was able to push the plug off with needle nose pliers).

Now if you want A/C on defrost you just push the A/C button. Turn it off if you want defrost without A/C.

Dave

 

Thanks Dave, I will give it a shot.