AC only on when recirculation button pushed, any hack to force engage?
 

I’m aware that a new climate control panel is needed for normal function. Only trouble is I sold the extra one I had last summer, forgetting about this issue with my dash swap. I’m really not feeling pulling two dashboards or buying a new panel online. I’d like a break after working on the car like 200 hours in the last two months. I’m wondering if there is any way to complete the recirculation circuit/keep recirculation engaged like the radiator fan paper clip hack.

Right now now I have a custom “bracket” applying pressure but it’s exceptionally ugly, especially in an un-riced stock looking civic. It also requires near constant adjustment. The wife and the kids and I would be super grateful if anyone has knowledge about the issue.

Re: AC only on when recirculation button pushed, any hack to force engage?
 

What year Civic? You're saying you have to keep the button pushed in, or are you saying that AC only works on recirc, and not on fresh air?

Re: AC only on when recirculation button pushed, any hack to force engage?
 

1995. It seems to only engage the AC clutch on recirculate. I have to push the recirc down harder even when the orange light is already on. Not crazy hard, just a couple pounds of force.!I haven’t tried pressing the fresh air button to see if that works as well but I will in a few. Got a doctor’s appointment for the wife.

Re: AC only on when recirculation button pushed, any hack to force engage?
 

Sounds like a bad climate control panel.

Re: AC only on when recirculation button pushed, any hack to force engage?
 

The buttons are all on a circuit board inside the panel. Take your panel apart and resolder the board. New backlight bulbs or even better, LEDs would be a nice touch also.