Lexus IS300 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 Lexus IS300 Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $136 with $41 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
2003 Lexus IS300L6-3.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$197.15Shop/Dealer Price$235.19 - $309.94
2004 Lexus IS300L6-3.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$177.15Shop/Dealer Price$215.22 - $289.99
2001 Lexus IS300L6-3.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$203.85Shop/Dealer Price$248.60 - $343.39
2002 Lexus IS300L6-3.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$203.85Shop/Dealer Price$248.56 - $343.32
2005 Lexus IS300L6-3.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$177.15Shop/Dealer Price$215.25 - $290.04
Show example Lexus IS300 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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Meet some of our expert Lexus mechanics

Real customer reviews from Lexus owners like you.

Excellent Rating

(115)

Rating Summary
109
3
1
2
0
109
3
1
2
0

Francisco

10 years of experience
174 reviews
Francisco
10 years of experience
Lexus IS300 L6-3.0L - Oil Change - Fountain Valley, California
Great guy! Told me items I need to watch out for on my vehicle. His politeness was an absolute plus!

Bill

21 years of experience
23 reviews
Bill
21 years of experience
Lexus IS300 L6-3.0L - Brake Light Bulb Replacement (Passenger Side) - Aliso Viejo, California
In less than an hour, he had taken care of all my issues with my car. And, the items he pointed out from his 50 point inspection were exactly what I expected. This is so easy and convenient.

Edgar

8 years of experience
202 reviews
Edgar
8 years of experience
Lexus IS300 L6-3.0L - Radiator - Austin, Texas
Excellent job, super helpful and professional.

Luis

29 years of experience
93 reviews
Luis
29 years of experience
Lexus IS300 L6-3.0L - Control Arm Assembly Replacement (Front Upper Left, Front Upper Right) - Huntley, Illinois
Another killer service! Luis knocked out the job in a fraction of the time that was quoted, I look forward to working with him again

Excellent Rating

(115)

Rating Summary
109
3
1
2
0
109
3
1
2
0
Number of Lexus IS300 services completed
1265+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT Lexus MECHANICS
1100+
experts on our platform

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