Air Temperature Sensor ( Ambient / Intake ): Description and Operation

Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor:

PURPOSE
The Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor measures varying air charge temperature information. This information is supplied to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The IAT signal is used to modify ignition timing, EGR flow and air/fuel mixture.

OPERATION
Variations in temperature affect the voltage drop across the sensor terminals, providing electrical signals to the PCM.

CONSTRUCTION
The IAT is a thermistor device in which resistance decreases as the temperature increases, and increases as the temperature decreases.