Ford Thunderbird 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 Ford Thunderbird Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $127 with $32 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
1993 Ford ThunderbirdV8-5.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$196.37Shop/Dealer Price$226.72 - $295.25
1996 Ford ThunderbirdV6-3.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$176.37Shop/Dealer Price$206.73 - $275.28
1995 Ford ThunderbirdV8-4.6LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$176.37Shop/Dealer Price$206.73 - $275.28
1995 Ford ThunderbirdV6-3.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$176.37Shop/Dealer Price$206.71 - $275.24
1982 Ford ThunderbirdV6-3.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$178.07Shop/Dealer Price$208.87 - $278.71
1981 Ford ThunderbirdV8-5.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$185.99Shop/Dealer Price$218.76 - $294.52
1991 Ford ThunderbirdV6-3.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$181.37Shop/Dealer Price$211.60 - $280.04
2003 Ford ThunderbirdV8-3.9LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$163.67Shop/Dealer Price$189.84 - $245.30
Show example Ford Thunderbird 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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Adam

17 years of experience
230 reviews
Adam
17 years of experience
Ford Thunderbird V8-3.9L - Power Steering Pump - Boca Raton, Florida
Adams professionalism, mechanical and diagnostic knowledge are additionally part of the toolkit he possesses, his customer service skills and honesty were an apparent part of his DNA. Will definitely use him again.

Jay

37 years of experience
947 reviews
Jay
37 years of experience
Ford Thunderbird V8-3.9L - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Pomona, California
Phenomenal! Jay's GREAT! Was on time, professional, courteous and had plenty of expertise. He explained things so this 'senior citizen' could get it. Was kinda, patient and extremely thorough. I was veryyyyyyyyyy happy with the service, the tips I learned and with the help I got. I know how to proceed and will highly recommend this company and Jay ALWAYS! THANK YOU!

Jeff

19 years of experience
9 reviews
Jeff
19 years of experience
Ford Thunderbird V8-4.6L - Alternator - Carlsbad, California
Jeff was timely and professional. I will request him for my next service and I highly recommend him.

Jay

37 years of experience
947 reviews
Jay
37 years of experience
Ford Thunderbird V8-6.4L - Starter - Ontario, California
Jay has been personable and efficient each time he’s been called. I appreciate his demeanor, attention to detail and professionalism.

Excellent Rating

(153)

Rating Summary
145
3
2
0
3
145
3
2
0
3
Number of Ford Thunderbird services completed
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