Ambient Temperature Sensor

Description and Operation

Description

The ambient air temperature sensor, located in front of the condenser, detects the outside air temperature. It is a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor; resistance increases at lower temperatures and decreases at higher temperatures.

The sensor output is used to control discharge air temperature, door control, blower motor speed, blend mode control, and in-vehicle humidity control.

Repair Procedures

Inspection

1. 1

   Turn the ignition off.

2. 2

   Remove the front bumper assembly.

   (Refer to Body - "Front Bumper Assembly")

3. 3

   Disconnect the ambient temperature sensor.

4. 4

   Check the resistance of the ambient air temperature sensor between terminals 1 and 2 and verify that it changes with the ambient temperature.

   

   Specification

   Ambient Temperature [°C(°F)]	Resistance between terminals 1 and 2 (kΩ)
   -10(14)	158,18
   0 (32)	95,10
   10 (50)	58,80
   20 (68)	37,32

5. 5

   If the measured resistance is not within specification, replace the sensor with a known good ambient air temperature sensor and check that it operates correctly.

6. 6

   Replace the ambient air temperature sensor if it is determined to be faulty.

Replacement

1. 1

   Disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal.

2. 2

   Remove the engine compartment cover (A).

   

3. 3

   Disconnect the connector (A) and remove the ambient temperature sensor (B).

   

4. 4

   Install in the reverse order of removal.