There have been a few recent posts asking about how often the A/C compressor should cycle on and off. I have a related question about the aux radiator fan:
I notice on my car, the fan is also intermittantly cycling on and off when the AC is on. It usually comes on a few seconds after the compressor after turning on the A/C, but last night when I pulled into the house, I noticed the fan wasn't running even with the A/C on. After 30 seconds or so, it kicked on. Then it dawned on me that it must be doing this as I'm driving along the highway too, since I noticed the headlights and panel lights dim slightly every so often like when a big load is suddenly added. Turn off the A/C and this stops. I figure it has to be the fan kicking in since it draws a pretty big load when it starts. If anyone knows, I'd be interested in hearing what controls this fan and whether this is normal or not. The thing with the lights is a little annoying at night. I had just assumed it would be on continuously when the A/C is on. I'd also like to know if the fan is also thermostatically controlled as well: Will it come on when needed (hot engine) even with the AC off? Thanks!