We currently own a 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max. We have noticed that since the vehicle was brand new, the air conditioning system blows cold air, but it never feels "ice cold" compared to our 2025 Honda Accord Hybrid. I have already checked that the "Eco" climate control setting is turned off, and I have experimented with various temperatures. I set it to low; it got colder, but still not cold.
This issue seems consistent whether we are driving at highway speeds or idling in heavy traffic, though it is most noticeable during high temperatures. I haven't noticed any strange noises coming from the compressor or odors from the vents. Could this be a symptom of a low refrigerant charge from the factory, an issue with a blend door actuator, or simply typical performance for this specific hybrid model? I do not have an OBDII scanner to check for HVAC-specific fault codes, but there are currently no warning lights illuminated on the dashboard. Any ideas?
Well, since you noticed it from brand new, it could be as simplest. They didn't fill it up with the right amount of refrigerant. I would take it back to Toyota under warranty and say look. This thing is never blown cold enough and see what they say. If they're not going to do anything, find an independent mechanic like me to empty the system out entirely and put in a factory load to see if that's the problem
