Circuit/System Description
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 GMC Sierra, 2007 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2007 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2007 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The intake air temperature (IAT) sensor 1 is a variable resistor. The IAT sensor measures the temperature of the air entering the engine. The engine control module (ECM) supplies 5 volts to the IAT signal circuit, and a ground for the IAT low reference circuit. When the IAT sensor is cold, the sensor resistance is high. When the air temperature increases, the sensor resistance decreases. With high sensor resistance, the ECM detects a high voltage on the IAT signal circuit. With lower sensor resistance, the ECM detects a lower voltage on the IAT signal circuit.