Diagnosis And Testing - Ambient Temperature Sensor: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The temperature function is supported by the ambient temperature sensor, a wiring circuit, and a portion of the HVAC control. If any portion of the ambient temperature sensor circuit fails or if PCI Bus information is missing, a (- -) will appear in the display in place of the temperature. When the sensor is exposed to temperatures above 55°C (140°F), or if the sensor circuit is shorted, 55°C (140°F) will appear in the display in place of the temperature, when the sensor is exposed to temperatures below - 40° C (-40°F) or if the sensor circuit is open, -40°C (-40°F) will appear in the display.

The ambient temperature sensor circuit can also be diagnosed using the following Sensor Test, and Sensor Circuit Test. If the temperature sensor and circuit are confirmed to be OK, but the temperature display is inoperative or incorrect, refer to Diagnosis and Testing the Compass Mini-Trip Computer in this article. For complete circuit diagrams, refer to Wiring Diagrams.