Ambient Temperature Sensor

Fig. 8 Ambient Temperature Sensor Remove/Install:

AMBIENT TEMP SENSOR
Ambient air temperature is monitored by the compass mini-trip computer module through the ambient temperature sensor. The ambient temperature sensor is a variable resistor mounted to a bracket that is secured with a screw to the underside of the hood panel near the hood latch striker in the engine compartment.

For complete circuit diagrams, refer to Overhead Console Driver/Vehicle Information Display. The ambient temperature sensor cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.

The ambient temperature sensor is a variable resistor that operates on a five-volt reference signal sent to it by the compass mini-trip computer module. The resistance in the sensor changes as temperature changes, changing the return circuit voltage to the compass mini-trip computer module. Based upon the resistance in the sensor, the compass mini-trip computer module senses a specific voltage on the return circuit, which it is programmed to correspond to a specific temperature.