BMW 318is Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement at your home or office.

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Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement Service

How much does a Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement cost?

On average, the cost for a BMW 318is Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $173 with $78 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
1997 BMW 318isL4-1.9LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$270.05Shop/Dealer Price$326.32 - $455.74
1996 BMW 318isL4-1.9LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$250.05Shop/Dealer Price$306.35 - $435.79
1998 BMW 318isL4-1.9LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$279.23Shop/Dealer Price$342.82 - $494.15
1999 BMW 318isL4-1.9LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$279.23Shop/Dealer Price$342.78 - $494.08
Show example BMW 318is Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement prices

What is the Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) all about?

Modern automotive HVAC systems have advanced by leaps and bounds over those used just a few years ago. Today, many high and even mid-range cars offer automatic climate control. This function basically allows you to “set it and forget it,” allowing the car’s computer to control the heating and cooling based on your preferred interior temperature. In order to do this, the computer needs information about not only the temperature inside the car, but also the ambient temperature outside the car.

The ambient temperature sensor (switch) is located either behind the front grille or in the front bumper. Its only job is to monitor air temperature (which it does through increasing/decreasing resistance in response to temperature fluctuations). This information is transmitted to the car’s computer, which then adjusts the climate control to meet your specifications.

If the ambient temperature sensor is damaged or fails, the car’s computer will not be able to automatically control the HVAC system, and the heater and air conditioner will only work in manual mode.

Keep in mind:

  • Because of its location, the ambient temperature sensor can be easily damaged in even minor front-end collisions.
  • Sensor failure is common even without an accident.

How it's done:

  • The ambient temperature sensor switch is verified to see if it needs to be replaced
  • The defective ambient temperature sensor switch is removed
  • The new ambient temperature sensor switch is installed
  • The ambient temperature sensor switch is tested for operation
  • The vehicle is tested to ensure proper operation of the ambient temperature sensor switch

Our recommendation:

Without the information provided by the ambient temperature sensor, your car’s computer does not have sufficient data to control the interior temperature, and will revert to manual HVAC control. You’ll still be able to use your air conditioner and heater, but only in manual mode, not in auto. If you suspect a problem with the ambient temperature sensor, have it diagnosed by one of our expert mechanics and replaced if necessary.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch)?

  • HVAC auto mode will not work
  • HVAC auto mode produces delivers inconsistent/incorrect operation
  • HVAC will only work in manual mode
  • Outside temperatures may display incorrectly

How important is this service?

Having automatic climate control is definitely a convenience, but not critical to the operation of your vehicle. The heater will still operate to clear the windows and provide heating and cooling on manual mode. If the ambient temperature sensor is faulty, have it replaced.

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James

12 years of experience
233 reviews
James
12 years of experience
BMW 318is L4-1.8L - Radiator Hose Repair - Daly City, California
James was a great mechanic, he arrived early and showed me what needed to be repaired. He was very professional and experienced at what he does. The work he did was outstanding and he fixed my squealing belts. He brought all the tools that was needed even the special tools BMW uses to fix the problem I had. I would recommend using his service again for any other problems I have with my BMW.

Theodore

16 years of experience
1617 reviews
Theodore
16 years of experience
BMW 318is L4-1.9L - Clutch Master Cylinder - Lynnwood, Washington
Very convenient! Thank you Theodore

Lucas

21 years of experience
893 reviews
Lucas
21 years of experience
BMW 318is L4-1.8L - Power Steering Belt Replacement - Burbank, California
Awesome guy. Awesome service. Highly recommend.

David

28 years of experience
142 reviews
David
28 years of experience
BMW 318is L4-1.8L - Thermo Fan Switch - San Diego, California
David's technological and mechanical trouble shooting abilities and professionalism is beyond reproach. He is not only thorough but easily explains what troubles found but also explains how the found discrepancy affects the car. If I need to call 'Your Mechanic' again, I will insist that David come again. He is the best car mechanic I have met to date.

Excellent Rating

(7)

Rating Summary
7
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7
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Number of BMW 318is services completed
77+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT BMW MECHANICS
1100+
experts on our platform

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