Circuit Description
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Buick LaCrosse and 2006 Buick Allure. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The instrument panel cluster (IPC) monitors the signal circuit of the ambient air temperature sensor. The ambient air temperature is a thermistor which varies in resistance as the temperature changes. As the resistance of the ambient air temperature sensor increases, the IPC senses a larger voltage drop across the sensor, indicating a lower temperature. As the resistance of the ambient air temperature sensor decreases, the IPC senses a smaller voltage drop across the sensor, indicating a higher temperature. The ambient air temperature is displayed in the DIC by the IPC. The ambient air temperature sensor is interfaced with the IPC via two discreet inputs.