Buick Electra 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 Buick Electra Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $125 with $30 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
1985 Buick ElectraV6-3.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$175.13Shop/Dealer Price$200.17 - $252.77
1987 Buick ElectraV6-3.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$158.67Shop/Dealer Price$184.61 - $239.88
1986 Buick ElectraV6-3.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$158.67Shop/Dealer Price$184.61 - $239.88
1990 Buick ElectraV6-3.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$158.67Shop/Dealer Price$184.59 - $239.84
1988 Buick ElectraV6-3.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$158.67Shop/Dealer Price$184.62 - $239.91
1989 Buick ElectraV6-3.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$158.67Shop/Dealer Price$184.61 - $239.88
Show example Buick Electra 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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William

34 years of experience
546 reviews
William
34 years of experience
Buick Electra V6-3.8L - Power Steering Pressure Hose - Mesa, Arizona
He did a great job fixing my power steering! Especially as long of a job as it was and how hot it was outside. He was always friendly, helpful and very knowledgeable.

Jeffrey

27 years of experience
870 reviews
Jeffrey
27 years of experience
Buick Electra V8-5.0L - Valve Cover Gasket - Indian Trail, North Carolina
Dude showed up early, quickly diagnosed my issue, alleviating the fears that come with a mystery coolant leak. Had him replace the valve cover gaskets on my engine to save me the headache. Awesome guy, great mechanic. Highly recommend him to anyone in the area.

Vaughan

11 years of experience
92 reviews
Vaughan
11 years of experience
Buick Electra V6-3.8L - Car is not starting - Carrollton, Texas
I wasn't able to meet with him but my mom did and she said he had a very good vibe....

Michael

6 years of experience
142 reviews
Michael
6 years of experience
Buick Electra V8-6.6L - Electrical components are not working - Kent, Washington
Friendly courteous. Went out o his way to make sure car was running good thanks

Excellent Rating

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Number of Buick Electra services completed
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