Circuit Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Cadillac DTS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Evaporator, Inside and Ambient Air Temperature Sensors

The HVAC control module supplies the evaporator, inside and ambient air temperature sensors with a low reference circuit and 5-volt signal circuit. The HVAC control module determines the voltage drop across the sensors. As the air temperature increases, the sensor resistance decreases and the voltage signal decreases. As the air temperature decreases, the sensor resistance increases and the voltage signal increases.

Sunload Sensor Assembly

The sunload sensor is a 2-wire photo diode. Body ground and 5-volt signal circuits enable the sensor to operate. As the sunload increases, the sensor signal decreases. The sensor operates within an intensity range between completely dark and very bright. The sunload sensor provides the HVAC control module with a measurement of the amount of light shining on the vehicle. Bright or high intensity light causes the vehicle interior temperature to increase. The HVAC system compensates for the increased temperature by diverting additional cool air into the vehicle.