Scion iQ 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 Scion iQ Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $128 with $23 for parts and $104 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
2012 Scion iQL4-1.3LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$172.63Shop/Dealer Price$195.17 - $238.02
2014 Scion iQL4-1.3LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$150.63Shop/Dealer Price$173.19 - $216.06
2013 Scion iQL4-1.3LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$150.63Shop/Dealer Price$173.18 - $216.05
2015 Scion iQL4-1.3LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$150.63Shop/Dealer Price$173.16 - $216.01
2013 Scion iQElectricService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$150.63Shop/Dealer Price$173.20 - $216.08
Show example Scion iQ 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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Excellent Rating

(24)

Rating Summary
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Andrew

11 years of experience
845 reviews
Andrew
11 years of experience
Scion iQ L4-1.3L - Oil Change - Kansas City, Missouri
Very good mechanic answered all my questions.

Eduardo

12 years of experience
41 reviews
Eduardo
12 years of experience
Scion iQ L4-1.3L - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Huntington Beach, California
Eduardo was very friendly and helpful when inspecting my car and taking it for a test drive. I would definitely recommend him to a friend!

Attila

19 years of experience
910 reviews
Attila
19 years of experience
Scion iQ L4-1.3L - Serpentine/Drive Belt Replacement - Roselle, New Jersey
Absolutely phenomenal! Completely professional & friendly, great advice, arrived early, and worked really fast. Changed my serpentine belt in under an hour! I will 100% be using YourMechanic and Attilas from now on; I've never going to a dealer again.

Attila

19 years of experience
910 reviews
Attila
19 years of experience
Scion iQ L4-1.3L - Adjust Drive Belts - Roselle, New Jersey
Very thorough in diagnosing problem; and was even early to the appointment!

Excellent Rating

(24)

Rating Summary
23
1
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0
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23
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Number of Scion iQ services completed
264+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT Scion MECHANICS
500+
experts on our platform

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