Whenever I put my climate control on defrost mode, my idle jumps up to about 1K rpm. I've driven a lot of other 4th and 5th gens that don't suffer from the same problem. Is something wrong with my car or am I being just too picky?

 

If you have the auto climate control and you referring to when you turn the windshield defroster on, that is normal. With the auto climate control, turning the windshield defroster on turns on the AC compressor. Hope that helps.

 

I've heard that the purpose for the AC compressor coming on when using the defroster is so that it won't be idle all winter, which might result in dried seals and leaks.

 

Yes, the AC compressor runs whenever the defroster is turned on.

This helps remove the moisture from the interior and keep the windows clear.

You don't want to make a habit of running the defroster when it's not needed, as it will wear the unit unnecessarily.... and take away a little power.

Good Luck!

 

I wouldn't worry about wearing out the compressor, as it cycles on and off when it is on anyways. Yes you do lose a little power, but if there is ever a case when you really need that lost power, WOT temporarily uncouples the AC clutch for full power.