BMW 528i 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 528i Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $114 with $19 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
2008 BMW 528iL6-3.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$241.47Shop/Dealer Price$290.59 - $398.58
2015 BMW 528iL4-2.0L TurboService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$560.01Shop/Dealer Price$665.83 - $766.33
1999 BMW 528iL6-2.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$253.35Shop/Dealer Price$310.47 - $442.39
2014 BMW 528iL4-2.0L TurboService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$680.81Shop/Dealer Price$816.60 - $1007.52
2000 BMW 528iL6-2.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$253.35Shop/Dealer Price$310.50 - $442.44
2010 BMW 528iL6-3.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$221.47Shop/Dealer Price$270.62 - $378.63
2013 BMW 528iL4-2.0L TurboService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$587.51Shop/Dealer Price$692.01 - $791.51
2011 BMW 528iL6-3.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$251.75Shop/Dealer Price$307.64 - $434.91
Show example BMW 528i 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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Jay

37 years of experience
953 reviews
Jay
37 years of experience
BMW 528i L6-2.8L - Brake Pads Replacement (Front) - Riverside, California
This is 2nd time Jay has worked on my BMW, he is reliable and explained everything to me. He replaced front brake pads and rotors and did an oil change. So convenient having work done at my house by an experienced, reliable and friendly mechanic. Will be making an appointment for back brakes very soon. Thanks Jay.

Brandon

18 years of experience
275 reviews
Brandon
18 years of experience
BMW 528i L6-3.0L - Brakes, Steering and Suspension Inspection - Lithonia, Georgia
Great experience!

Chuy

14 years of experience
406 reviews
Chuy
14 years of experience
BMW 528i L6-2.8L - Battery - Chicago, Illinois
Simple procedure — replace a battery — but Chuy did it quickly and professionally.

John

27 years of experience
1019 reviews
John
27 years of experience
BMW 528i L6-3.0L - Window is not going up or down - League City, Texas
This is the 3rd time we have called and specifically asked for John. He is very friendly, knowledgeable and competent. He will not perform any unnecessary work and gets the job done in a timely manner. A good honest mechanic!

Excellent Rating

(368)

Rating Summary
347
15
1
0
5
347
15
1
0
5
Number of BMW 528i services completed
4048+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT BMW MECHANICS
1100+
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