How are Ambient Air Temperature Sensor issues diagnosed?
The ambient air temperature sensor is only one point of failure in the air conditioning system, and any servicing technician must diagnose the air conditioner as a whole. Refrigerant pressure must be checked on the high pressure and low pressure side, which will normally provide an understanding of where the problem may be, and where the technician should investigate further. Keep in mind there are electronic components that must be checked with computerized scanning equipment to verify accuracy and functionality, and the ambient air temperature sensor definitely falls into that category. Since this sensor is just a resistor, it can be removed and checked by connecting a multimeter to the pins on the electrical connection, and heating or cooling the sensor while watching the resistance for proper movement through its range.
How are Ambient Air Temperature Sensors replaced?
Replacement is as simple as accessing the ambient air temperature sensor, disconnecting the battery, removing any securing clips, brackets or fasteners, and disconnecting electrically from the main wiring harness. Then, the new sensor can be connected electronically and secured to the vehicle in the most convenient order. Reconnecting the battery is needed to test the functionality of the system.
RepairPal Recommendations for Ambient Air Temperature Sensor issues
we recommend avoiding the use of any off-the-shelf air conditioning repair additives, as these additives are only temporary fixes, if they work at all, and can cause damage to air conditioner refrigerant evacuation machines. Also, never attempt to vent refrigerant into the air, as this is harmful to the environment, and can cause chemical burns. If the system is overcharged, you will need the refrigerant to be recovered by a trained and certified technician.
What to look out for when dealing with Ambient Air Temperature Sensor issues
Older vehicles were made with ozone-depleting, or non-environmental friendly refrigerants, and releasing any refrigerants into the atmosphere is illegal. Federal law requires contained evaporation and disposal of refrigerants, and this requires fairly expensive machinery/tooling. Federal law also states that the older types of refrigerant be replaced with a more environmentally friendly version when the air conditioner service is performed. This will likely require several components, and seals to be replaced to ensure compatibility with the new refrigerant. Due to the nature of air conditioning systems, adding refrigerant is not advised without measuring the high pressure and low pressure side of the system simultaneously, as the pressures may not be affected on both sides of the system.
Can I replace the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor myself?
As easy as the sensor may be to replace, the air conditioning system must be tested prior to replacing the ambient air temperature sensor. In many cases, the sensor will not be the issue, so testing will prevent unnecessary cost and frustration. Air conditioner repair is seldom achievable at home, and will require expensive evacuation equipment, a manifold and gauge set, creating a vacuum in the system, and charging the system. Aside from the lack of equipment that most DIYers will face, there is a danger of harm to person, equipment, and the vehicle when repairs or diagnostics are performed incorrectly. When it comes to servicing the air conditioner, it is best left to the pros. However, if the sensor is known or proven faulty, replacement is a breeze for just about anyone, as long as the location of the sensor can be found.
