Outside Temperature Display Sensor: Testing and Inspection

AMBIENT TEMPERATURE SENSOR

The temperature function is supported by the ambient temperature sensor, a wiring circuit, and the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM). When the sensor is exposed to temperatures above 60° C (140° F), or if the sensor circuit is shorted, 60° C (130/140° F) will appear in the display in place of the temperature. When the sensor is exposed to temperatures below - 40° C (- 40° F) or if the sensor circuit is open, - - ° C (- - ° F) will be displayed on Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) equipped vehicles.

NOTE: The system displays the last known temperature when starting the vehicle and may take some time/mileage to update to an accurate current reading, up to 5 minutes at a maintained speed above 40 mph (64.3 kph). Customers with very short commutes may not get an updated reading before the vehicle is turned off, or if the ignition does not remain in the OFF position for more than 255 minutes (4hrs. 15min.). This strategy was intended to eliminate wildly fluctuating readings and may cause some customer confusion leading to unnecessary diagnostics/parts replacements.

SENSOR TEST

1. Turn the ignition switch to the Off position. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable. Disconnect the ambient temperature sensor harness connector.
2. Measure the resistance of the ambient temperature sensor. At - 40° C (- 40° F), the sensor resistance is 336 kilohms. At 55° C (130° F), the sensor resistance is 2.488 kilohms. The sensor resistance should read between these two values. If OK, refer to Sensor Circuit Test. If not OK, replace the inoperative ambient temperature sensor.
The ambient temperature sensor circuit can also be diagnosed using the following Sensor Test, and Sensor Circuit Test. If the temperature sensor and circuit are confirmed to be OK, but the temperature display is inoperative or incorrect, test the EVIC operation, Testing and Inspection.

SENSOR CIRCUIT TEST

Refer to the appropriate wiring information for complete circuit schematic or connector pin-out information.

1. Turn the ignition switch to the Off position. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable. Disconnect the wire harness connectors from the ambient temperature sensor and the TIPM.
2. Connect a jumper wire between the two terminals in the body half of the ambient temperature sensor harness connector.
3. Check for continuity between the sensor return circuit and the ambient temperature sensor signal circuit cavities of the TIPM harness connector. There should be continuity. If OK, go to 4. If not OK, repair the open sensor return circuit or ambient temperature sensor signal circuit to the ambient temperature sensor as required.
4. Check for continuity between the ambient temperature sensor signal circuit cavity of the TIPM harness connector and a good ground. There should be no continuity. If OK, test the EVIC operation, Testing and Inspection. If not OK, repair the shorted ambient temperature sensor signal circuit as required.
The most reliable, efficient and accurate means to diagnose the ambient temperature circuit requires the use of a scan tool and the proper diagnostic procedure information. Refer to wiring for the appropriate information.