Ambient Temperature Sensor

Description and Operation

Description

The ambient temperature sensor is located at the front of the condenser and detects the ambient air temperature. It is a negative temperature coefficient thermistor; its resistance increases as the temperature decreases and decreases as the temperature increases.

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

   Disconnect the ambient temperature sensor.

3. 3

   Check the resistance of the ambient temperature sensor between terminals "+" and "-" and verify that it changes as the ambient temperature changes.

   

   Specification

   Ambient Temperature [°C(°F)]	Resistance [kΩ]	Voltage [V]
   -30(-22)	507	4.720
   -20(-4)	284,5	4.522
   -10(14)	164,2	4.225
   0 (32)	97,5	3.821
   10 (50)	59,6	3.322
   20 (68)	37,46	2,772
   30(86)	24.18	2.227
   40(104)	16	1,735
   50(122)	10,83	1,323

4. 4

   If the measured resistance does not meet the specification, replace the ambient temperature sensor with a known good one and check its operation.

5. 5

   If the problem is resolved, replace the ambient temperature sensor.

Replacement

1. 1

   Disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal.

2. 2

   Remove the front bumper.

   (Refer to Body - "Front Bumper Assembly")

3. 3

   Disconnect the ambient air temperature sensor connector (A).

   

4. 4

   Remove the ambient temperature sensor (A).

   

5. 5

   Installation is the reverse of removal.