Ambient Temperature Sensor: Operation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Sprinter. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The ambient temperature sensor is a variable resistor that operates on a five-volt reference signal sent to it by the instrument cluster. The resistance in the sensor changes as temperature changes. Based upon the resistance in the sensor, the instrument cluster sends the ATC control module a specific voltage on the temperature sensor signal circuit, which is programmed to correspond to a specific temperature.
The ambient temperature sensor is diagnosed using the DRBIII(R) scan tool. Refer to BODY DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES .
The ambient temperature sensor cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.