Does anyone know if it is possible to just bring in outside air with the manual button, or does the A/C come on all the time?
I think this is the case and irritates me as the A/C runs when it doesn't have to, thus shortening its' life and costing gas mileage.

In my Gen 3 SE, I could "vent" outside air in the car when it is cooler outside (usually the case in Seattle)and not use the A/C.

 

When you select the ECON button on Auto Climate Control systems the A/C compressor will not run. If the air recirculation button is NOT selected, you will bring in just outside air. On manual systems just de-select the A/C button to get the same thing.

 

I just hit the circulation button and it comes on and I make sure re-circulate is not on. I don't use ECON because it says you have to run it above outside temperatures for proper use (I think that was right). When I hit the fan speed button, it comes on and no compressor is on.

 

If the system is off, just hit the MODE button, and the air will come in like vent from the old 3rd gens. The faster you go, the faster the air comes in. Keep hitting MODE to direct the air where you want it.

 

When the system is off just hit the MODE button to open the vents you want fresh air from.