Electrical and sensors

P00DD — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit B Intermittent/Erratic

Severity: low Safe to drive

What P00DD means

The engine control unit monitors the ambient air temperature sensor (circuit B) and has detected a signal that drops out or jumps around, which real outside temperature cannot do. The sensor is a thermistor whose resistance changes with temperature, and the control unit reads it as a voltage. This value helps correct fuel delivery, estimate air density and run climate control.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine light on
  • Outside temperature display jumping or showing wrong values
  • Rough or uneven idle
  • Slightly higher fuel consumption
  • Automatic climate control behaving oddly

Possible causes

  1. Failed ambient air temperature sensor
  2. Open, shorted or corroded wiring in the harness
  3. Poor connector contact or weak sensor ground
  4. Water or dirt in the sensor connector
  5. PCM input circuit fault (rare)

How to diagnose

  1. Scan for codes and freeze frame data, clear the code and see if it returns
  2. Compare the scan tool temperature reading with the actual outside temperature on a cold engine
  3. Inspect the sensor (usually behind the bumper or grille) and its connector for corrosion, moisture or a broken latch
  4. Wiggle the harness and connector while watching live data; jumps point to a bad connection
  5. Measure sensor resistance and compare it with the manufacturer's chart for that temperature
  6. Check reference voltage and ground at the connector, and test the wires to the PCM for opens and shorts
  7. If wiring tests fine, try a known-good sensor and watch the reading

Common fixes

  • Replace the ambient air temperature sensor
  • Clean the connector terminals and secure the ground
  • Repair or replace damaged wiring or the connector
  • Repair or replace the PCM only after everything else is ruled out

Questions and answers

Can I drive with a P00DD code?

Yes, usually. It will not harm the engine, but you may notice minor drivability issues and a bit worse fuel economy. Have it checked soon.

What most often causes P00DD?

Most often it is the sensor itself or a poor connection at its connector. The sensor sits at the front of the car where water and dirt hit it, so corroded terminals are common.

This is general information about the code. The meaning can differ between makes and models: a scan tool and the repair manual for your car will show the exact cause.