Mercedes-Benz 300SD 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 Mercedes-Benz 300SD Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $220 with $125 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
1993 Mercedes-Benz 300SDL6-3.4L Turbo DieselService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$364.17Shop/Dealer Price$443.97 - $643.98
1992 Mercedes-Benz 300SDL6-3.4L Turbo DieselService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$344.17Shop/Dealer Price$424.00 - $624.03
Show example Mercedes-Benz 300SD 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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Rating Summary
6
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Desmond

20 years of experience
50 reviews
Desmond
20 years of experience
Mercedes-Benz 300SD L5-3.0L Turbo Diesel - Transmission Fluid Service - Seaside, California
Timely ,professional, and a great mechanic for all your automotive needs.

Robert

31 years of experience
641 reviews
Robert
31 years of experience
Mercedes-Benz 300SD L5-3.0L Turbo Diesel - Noise from engine or exhaust - Mountain View, California
Robert is good or even better than the other reviews. He does not only solve your problem but he ensures that your car is at its best before he leaves. He tries very hard to make your car perfect. When parts are not available he will try to make it. I regret very much not to hive him a tip when he left. It seems that Robert has a very busy schedule. Perhaps, his devotion to perfection takes extra time and make him a little bit late on schedule.

Jim

33 years of experience
190 reviews
Jim
33 years of experience
Mercedes-Benz 300SD L5-3.0L Turbo Diesel - Coolant is leaking - San Ramon, California
Identified the problem immmediately

Trevor

22 years of experience
185 reviews
Trevor
22 years of experience
Mercedes-Benz 300SD L5-3.0L Turbo Diesel - Alternator Belt - Encinitas, California
Trevor showed up on time and had the work completed within the estimated time. Professional and friendly. I highly recommend Your Mechanic and Trevor. This was so easy, no up charges or surprises. I will use Your Mechanic for future auto services.

Excellent Rating

(7)

Rating Summary
6
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1
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6
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Number of Mercedes-Benz 300SD services completed
77+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT Mercedes-Benz MECHANICS
1100+
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