Subaru Forester 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 Subaru Forester Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $156 with $61 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

Car	Service	Estimate	Shop/Dealer Price
2000 Subaru ForesterH4-2.5L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$502.45	Shop/Dealer Price$609.32 - $907.41
2009 Subaru ForesterH4-2.5L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$230.25	Shop/Dealer Price$274.08 - $383.04
2011 Subaru ForesterH4-2.5L Turbo	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$230.25	Shop/Dealer Price$274.08 - $383.04
2003 Subaru ForesterH4-2.5L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$309.35	Shop/Dealer Price$372.94 - $541.20
2007 Subaru ForesterH4-2.5L Turbo	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$309.35	Shop/Dealer Price$372.97 - $541.27
2007 Subaru ForesterH4-2.5L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$309.35	Shop/Dealer Price$372.96 - $541.24
2009 Subaru ForesterH4-2.5L Turbo	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$235.25	Shop/Dealer Price$278.95 - $387.80
2006 Subaru ForesterH4-2.5L Turbo	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$314.35	Shop/Dealer Price$378.19 - $546.66

Show example Subaru Forester 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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Gary

35 years of experience

91 reviews

Gary

35 years of experience

by Joshua

Subaru Forester H4-2.5L - Axle / CV Shaft Assembly Replacement (Driver Side Front) - Marietta, Georgia

Gary was on time with fast and friendly service. His many years of experience showed as he was able troubleshoot the issue and tweak it until the ride was smooth again.

Kyle

13 years of experience

145 reviews

Kyle

13 years of experience

by Nathan

Subaru Forester H4-2.5L - Timing Belt - Fort Worth, Texas

There was an unfortunate parts mix-up (which I didn't think would happen booking a week in advance) that caused my appointment to end up starting four hours later than scheduled, which caused some disturbance to the rest of my day- but the work was top notch, faster than estimated, far cheaper than any shop in town, and done with friendly professionalism. Will absolutely book with Kyle again.

John

36 years of experience

438 reviews

John

36 years of experience

by Leonard

Subaru Forester H4-2.5L - Differential / Gear Oil Replacement (Front, Rear) - San Francisco, California

Called Yourmechanic.com for a power steering, brake flush and differential service. John came in on time and was very knowledgeable about cars. John told me about the state of my car. He answered all of my questions. John finished in a couple of hours. I would recommend him.

Riley

41 years of experience

18 reviews

Riley

41 years of experience

by Samanta

Subaru Forester H4-2.5L - License Plate Light - Washington, District of Columbia

He was very kind and professional - quickly diagnosed the problems with our car and repaired them. I would highly recommend Riley for your car repair needs.

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7

588

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7

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