Sensor-Evaporator Temperature: Operation

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

The evaporator temperature sensor monitors the surface temperature of A/C evaporator and supplies an input signal to the A/C-heater control. The A/C-heater control uses the evaporator temperature sensor input signal to optimize A/C system performance and to protect the A/C system from evaporator freezing. The evaporator temperature sensor will change its internal resistance in response to the temperatures it monitors and is connected to the A/C-heater control through sensor ground circuit and a 5-volt reference signal circuit. As the temperature of the A/C evaporator decreases, the internal resistance of the evaporator temperature sensor decreases.

The A/C-heater control uses the monitored voltage reading as an indication of evaporator temperature. The A/C-heater control is programmed to respond to this input by requesting the powertrain control module (PCM) or the engine control module (ECM) (depending on engine application) to cycle the A/C compressor clutch as necessary to optimize A/C system performance and to protect the A/C system from evaporator freezing.

The evaporator temperature sensor is diagnosed using a DRBIII® scan tool (Refer to DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING and to HVAC - ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSTICS for more information).

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