Saturn LW1 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 Saturn LW1 Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $140 with $46 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
2000 Saturn LW1L4-2.2LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$205.99Shop/Dealer Price$238.74 - $314.49
Show example Saturn LW1 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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Jay

37 years of experience
967 reviews
Jay
37 years of experience
Saturn LW1 L4-2.2L - Serpentine/Drive Belt Replacement - Upland, California
Jay is very good and sufficient. Job well done.

Juan

29 years of experience
70 reviews
Juan
29 years of experience
Saturn Ion L4-2.2L - Axle / CV Shaft Assembly Replacement (Driver Side Front, Passenger Side Front) - Burbank, California
I can't even begin to describe how amazing the service I received from Juan was, but I can try. He successfully navigated my crazy parking lot to find my car without complaining, even though it probably took close to 15 minutes to figure it out. During the diagnosis phase, he was more than adamant about showing me what was causing the problem rather than just telling me in terms I would not understand. He accurately diagnosed what I suspected as well as additional issues that could have been catastrophic if left unfixed. Due to the extent of the repairs, it required parts to be ordered over the weekend, but he was sure to set up the new appointment to get my repairs completed. Fast forward to the appointment and he went above and beyond what was expected of him. My work location would not allow car maintenance to be performed in their parking lot, so this is where Juan went from amazing to unbelievable. He arranged it so he would personally take my car to a personal location of his to finish the repairs and then arranged to bring my then fixed car back to my work location. All of this happened while I was in my office and did not have to miss a minute of work. Unbelievably amazing.

Chris

18 years of experience
495 reviews
Chris
18 years of experience
Saturn Vue L4-2.4L - Check Engine Light is on - Houston, Texas
He’s very thorough and careful! Excellent technician!

Jesus

15 years of experience
5 reviews
Jesus
15 years of experience
Saturn Vue L4-2.2L - Clutch pedal goes all the way to the floor - Fort Worth, Texas
Jesus showed up just before my scheduled appointment and was very friendly and professional. Thanks for a job well done Jesus!

Excellent Rating

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Rating Summary
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27
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