Chevrolet Cavalier Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement Costs

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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 Chevrolet Cavalier Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $97 with $2 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

Car	Service	Estimate	Shop/Dealer Price
1990 Chevrolet CavalierV6-3.1L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$119.09	Shop/Dealer Price$130.12 - $140.69
1985 Chevrolet CavalierV6-2.8L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$155.13	Shop/Dealer Price$180.18 - $232.80
1988 Chevrolet CavalierL4-2.0L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$172.97	Shop/Dealer Price$202.48 - $268.48
1990 Chevrolet CavalierL4-2.2L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$165.75	Shop/Dealer Price$193.44 - $254.00
2005 Chevrolet CavalierL4-2.2L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$169.29	Shop/Dealer Price$197.90 - $261.15
1992 Chevrolet CavalierV6-3.1L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$146.95	Shop/Dealer Price$169.96 - $216.44
1993 Chevrolet CavalierV6-3.1L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$151.95	Shop/Dealer Price$174.82 - $221.20
1992 Chevrolet CavalierL4-2.2L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$151.95	Shop/Dealer Price$175.19 - $221.86

Show example Chevrolet Cavalier 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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Andrew

14 years of experience

103 reviews

Andrew

14 years of experience

by DAWN

Chevrolet Cavalier L4-2.2L - Car is overheating - Sumner, Washington

Andrew was on time and very pleasant through out the entire appointment. He had everything needed to do the job. I would recommend Andrew for the job... Thank you Sincerely, Dawn

Travis

13 years of experience

582 reviews

Travis

13 years of experience

by Lauren

Chevrolet Cavalier L4-2.2L - Shift Selector Cable - Saint Paul, Minnesota

He knows his stuff! Travis was awesome, and completed the necessary fix without having to replace the whole part and saved me $$$! Most definitely would recommend to anyone needing work done.

Benjamin

11 years of experience

92 reviews

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Benjamin

11 years of experience

Request Benjamin

by Kimberly

Chevrolet Cavalier L4-2.2L - Oil/Fluid Leak - Irving, Texas

My experience with Benjamin is worthy of recognition and acknowledgement for his courtesy, his in depth knowledge of the product and his ability to quickly diagnose the mechanical issues that I was experiencing with my vehicle. He quickly pinpointed the root cause of the symptoms and provided a thorough, yet understandable explanation. He patiently answered all of my questions and provided his expertise and insight into all of the scenarios that I presented. He maintained a great deal of integrity during the initial diagnosis. Benjamin simply told me the truth, but in such a way that I felt that he was able to relate to me as an individual and where I am with my car. His counsel truly made the entire experience worthwhile. I would gladly recommend him to another consumer.

Steven

14 years of experience

425 reviews

Steven

14 years of experience

by Richard

Chevrolet Cavalier L4-2.2L - Brakes, Steering and Suspension Inspection - Phoenix, Arizona

I was very impressed with his knowledge and experience with the braking system. When I do call again i hope it is with Steven.Thank you very much for your time and great personality.

Excellent Rating

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