Ambient Temperature Sensor

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 ambient air temperature is monitored by the NGC in 3.7L and 4.7L vehicles, or by the HVAC module in JTEC equipped vehicles, and is displayed by the CMTC. The NGC or HVAC module receives a hardwire input from the ambient temperature sensor (ATS).

The ATS is a variable resistor that operates on a 5-volt reference signal circuit hardwired from the NGC or the HVAC module. The resistance in the ATS changes as the outside temperature rises or falls. The NGC or HVAC module senses the change in reference voltage through the ATS resistor. Based on the resistance of the ATS, the NGC or HVAC module is programmed to correspond to a specific temperature. The NGC or HVAC module stores and filters the ambient temperature data and transmits this data to the CMTC via the PCI Bus. The ATS cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.