Controls - Front: Sensor-Infrared: Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Dodge Durango. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The infrared sensor detects thermal radiation emitted by the driver seat occupant and its surroundings and converts its data into a linear pulse width modulated (PWM) output signal, which is sent to the compass temperature module (EOM) through a two-wire lead and connector of the vehicle wire harness. The EOM sends a message over the controller area network (CAN) B bus where it is read by the automatic temperature control (ATC) A/C-heater control. The ATC A/C-heater control uses the infrared sensor data as one of the inputs necessary to automatically control the interior cabin temperature level. By using thermal radiation (surface temperature) measurement, rather than an air temperature measurement, the ATC heating-A/C system is able to adjust itself to the comfort level as perceived by the occupant. This allows the ATC system to compensate for other ambient conditions affecting comfort levels, such as solar heat gain or evaporative heat loss.

The ATC system logic responds to the infrared sensor message from the EOM by calculating and adjusting the air flow temperature and air flow rate needed to properly obtain and maintain the selected comfort level temperature of the occupants. The EOM continually monitors the infrared sensor circuits, and will store a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for any problem it detects.

The infrared sensor cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.

The infrared sensor is diagnosed using a scan tool. Refer to OVERHEAD CONSOLE - ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSTICS for more information.