Climate Control System - System Operation and Component Description: Panel

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2015 Ford C-Max. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

When PANEL mode is selected:

the recirculated air request button is enabled. If the recirculated air request button is selected (indicator on), the air inlet door closes, preventing outside air from entering the passenger compartment. If the recirculated air request button is not selected (indicator off), the air inlet door opens, allowing only outside air into the passenger compartment.
the footwell vent doors and defrost vent/register doors operate in combination to direct airflow to the instrument panel registers.
blended air temperature is available. Only when A/C electric compressor operation has been selected by pressing the A/C button (indicator on) can the airflow temperature be cooled below the outside air temperature.
the blower motor is on and the speed is adjustable.