Circuit/System Description

The ambient air temperature sensor is a variable resistor interfaced to the driver information center (DIC) via the outside air temperature sensor signal circuit and low reference circuit. The DIC provides the logic for reading the ambient air temperature sensor, filtering the data and displaying the ambient air temperature. A warmer ambient air temperature results in a lower ambient air temperature sensor resistance. Temperature reading exceeding 143°F (62°C) is out of the DIC temperature range and will not be displayed. When the ambient air temperature reading exceeds 143°F (62°C), "SC" is displayed in the DIC. A colder ambient air temperature results in a higher ambient air temperature sensor resistance. Temperature reading lower than -40°F (-40°C) is out of the DIC temperature range and will not be displayed. When the ambient air temperature reading is lower than -40°F (-40°C), "OC" is displayed in the DIC. In colder temperatures such as 37°F (3°C) or below, the mirror displays "ICE" when the ignition is first turned on. The DIC temperature display toggles between "ICE" and the actual ambient temperature until the temperature update process is complete. If the ambient air temperature sensor is opened or shorted, the temperature displayed is either a cold or hot extreme. An open ambient air temperature sensor displays as "OC" and an outside air temperature sensor shorted to ground displays as "SC".