Lexus RX300 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 Lexus RX300 Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $136 with $41 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

Car	Service	Estimate	Shop/Dealer Price
2003 Lexus RX300V6-3.0L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$197.15	Shop/Dealer Price$235.19 - $309.94
1999 Lexus RX300V6-3.0L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$203.85	Shop/Dealer Price$248.60 - $343.39
2002 Lexus RX300V6-3.0L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$203.85	Shop/Dealer Price$248.60 - $343.39
2001 Lexus RX300V6-3.0L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$203.85	Shop/Dealer Price$248.56 - $343.32
2000 Lexus RX300V6-3.0L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$203.85	Shop/Dealer Price$248.62 - $343.44

Show example Lexus RX300 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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TJ

26 years of experience

362 reviews

TJ

26 years of experience

by Elizabeth

Lexus RX300 V6-3.0L - Steering Rack Mounting Bushings Replacement - Punta Gorda, Florida

Very professional and knows his job very well

Scott

34 years of experience

548 reviews

Scott

34 years of experience

by Yongjin

Lexus RX300 V6-3.0L - Brake Pads Replacement (Front, Rear) - Broomfield, Colorado

He arrive and work on time. and He is kindness.

Brett

25 years of experience

213 reviews

Brett

25 years of experience

by Daniel

Lexus RX300 V6-3.0L - Check Engine Light is on - Charlotte, North Carolina

On time, courteous and knowledgeable. We discussed my findings prior to him starting. I liked that he was open to discussion. He got right to it, and issued the estimate promptly. The car was fixed quickly

Angelo

32 years of experience

76 reviews

Angelo

32 years of experience

by Jerry

Lexus RX300 V6-3.0L - Ignition Coil - Frisco, Texas

Very professional and timely. Communication was excellent. Thanks!

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