BMW 550i 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 550i 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
2009 BMW 550iV8-4.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$241.47Shop/Dealer Price$290.59 - $398.58
2016 BMW 550iV8-4.4L TurboService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$560.01Shop/Dealer Price$665.83 - $766.33
2015 BMW 550iV8-4.4L TurboService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$560.01Shop/Dealer Price$665.81 - $766.30
2007 BMW 550iV8-4.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$221.47Shop/Dealer Price$270.58 - $378.56
2012 BMW 550iV8-4.4L TurboService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$680.81Shop/Dealer Price$816.97 - $1008.17
2011 BMW 550iV8-4.4L TurboService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$560.01Shop/Dealer Price$665.81 - $766.30
2006 BMW 550iV8-4.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$226.47Shop/Dealer Price$275.38 - $383.21
2008 BMW 550iV8-4.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$226.47Shop/Dealer Price$276.04 - $384.35
Show example BMW 550i 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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David

16 years of experience
635 reviews
David
16 years of experience
BMW 550i V8-4.4L Turbo - Oil Change - Carmichael, California
Honest person, knows mechanics.

Chris

22 years of experience
2229 reviews
Chris
22 years of experience
BMW 550i V8-4.4L Turbo - Oil Change - Anaheim, California
Chris was great. He was on time, answered any questions I had, and efficient worker.

Wayne

23 years of experience
65 reviews
Wayne
23 years of experience
BMW 550i V8-4.4L Turbo - Oil Change - Bothell, Washington
Wayne was knowledgeable, friendly and just a cool guy overall!

Max

10 years of experience
56 reviews
Max
10 years of experience
BMW 550i V8-4.4L Turbo - Oil Pressure Sensor Replacement - Fort Worth, Texas
Very professional, great guy overall , definitely would recommend and use again

Excellent Rating

(79)

Rating Summary
72
3
1
0
3
72
3
1
0
3
Number of BMW 550i services completed
869+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT BMW MECHANICS
1100+
experts on our platform

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