BMW M3 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 M3 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
1999 BMW M3L6-3.2LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$270.05Shop/Dealer Price$333.82 - $468.87
2011 BMW M3V8-4.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$560.01Shop/Dealer Price$707.16 - $838.65
2012 BMW M3V8-4.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$680.81Shop/Dealer Price$858.14 - $1080.21
2010 BMW M3V8-4.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$680.81Shop/Dealer Price$857.83 - $1079.67
1997 BMW M3L6-3.2LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$250.05Shop/Dealer Price$313.90 - $449.01
2013 BMW M3V8-4.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$680.81Shop/Dealer Price$858.14 - $1080.21
2006 BMW M3L6-3.2LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$226.47Shop/Dealer Price$282.79 - $396.18
1996 BMW M3L6-3.2LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$255.05Shop/Dealer Price$319.45 - $454.97
Show example BMW M3 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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Rating Summary
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70
5
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Danny

11 years of experience
269 reviews
Danny
11 years of experience
BMW M3 V8-4.0L - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Very prompt, insightful, thorough inspection. Would recommend without hesitation.

Tien

23 years of experience
903 reviews
Tien
23 years of experience
BMW M3 L6-3.0L Turbo - Oil Change - Emeryville, California
Arrived on time. Friendly and efficient.

Shaun

16 years of experience
238 reviews
Shaun
16 years of experience
BMW M3 L6-3.0L Turbo - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Cupertino, California
Shaun inspected a vehicle for me and was able to provide a comprehensive report of the vehicle. Very satisfied.

Joe

43 years of experience
823 reviews
Joe
43 years of experience
BMW M3 L6-3.2L - Oil Change - Indian Rocks Beach, Florida
Joe is an awesome and honest man. Chatted with him about this and that and the other for quite a while and he was very polite and cool. I will definitely continue to have Joe complete any future automotive repairs or services I need for either of my two BMW's. Excellent service all around.

Excellent Rating

(77)

Rating Summary
70
5
2
0
0
70
5
2
0
0
Number of BMW M3 services completed
847+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT BMW MECHANICS
1100+
experts on our platform

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