Two questions

[kwren]

Hopefully it is a slow leak that you can live with for a while or you will be able to correct it. Summer is on the way! Again, the oil seepage at connections could possibly be a clue as to where the leak is. Of course, without a leak the refrigerant is good till the Lord returns!
Take care,
Keith

[dcarrb]

Originally Posted by Manarius

As far as I know, the a/c comes on with the defroster in order to dehumidify air that will be used to clear the windshield. That's why I'm not a real big fan of using it (it's a mileage killer).

You're right, and this is the case on all modern cars, I believe. The AC compressor will automatically run with the DEFROST setting (not heat), down to a set air temp near freezing (I don't recall what this temperature is on the SVX; maybe it's stated in the owner's manual). This is to remove humidity from the cabin that causes condensation on the glass.

I generally leave my cars set on AUTO year 'round and have never logged any noticeable fuel economy difference between summer and winter, leading me to conclude that the AC really doesn't impose much of a drag on the engine. Consumer Reports maintains AC can set you back up to one MPG. Running the defrost to clear the glass isn't likely to cost anything you could quantify.

dcb