Instruments - Incorrect Temp. Display With Snow Plow

NUMBER: 08-011-09

GROUP: Electrical

DATE: August 26, 2009

SUBJECT:
Ambient temperature display too high due to snowplow

MODELS:

2009-2010 (DH/DJ) Ram Truck

2009-2010 (D1/D2) Ram Truck

NOTE:
This bulletin applies to vehicles equipped with a Snow Plow (sales code AHD).

DISCUSSION:

Customer experiences ambient temperature reading on cluster that is significantly higher than actual outdoor temperature. The displayed value can be 10 degrees F to as much as 50-60 degrees F higher than actual temperature. If a snowplow is installed on the vehicle, the plow blocks the flow of fresh air to the ambient temperature sensor. Hotter air from the engine gets trapped between the snowplow and the front end, causing the sensor to read something closer to under hood temperature. The difference in temperature is dependent on the size of the plow and the vehicle operating conditions. No repair is required. Dealer should inform the customer that when the snowplow is installed on the vehicle, the ambient temperature displayed will be higher than actual. If/when the snowplow is removed, the reading will return to normal. If vehicle is 2010 model year with ATC (Automatic Temperature Control), recommend that the customer use manual temperature control when the snowplow is installed.

POLICY:
Information Only

Disclaimer:
This bulletin is supplied as technical information only and is not an authorization for repair.