Ambient Temperature Input Process
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Nissan Maxima. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The unified meter and A/C amp. includes a processing circuit for the ambient sensor input. However, when the temperature detected by the ambient sensor increases quickly, the processing circuit retards the unified meter and A/C amp. function. It only allows the unified meter and A/C amp. to recognize an ambient temperature increase of 0.33°C (0.6°F) per 100 seconds.
As an example, consider stopping for a cup of coffee after high speed driving. Although the actual ambient temperature has not changed, the temperature detected by the ambient sensor will increase. This is because the heat from the engine compartment can radiate to the front grille area, location of the ambient sensor.