Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Sensor, Temperature, Air Outlet: Operation
The air outlet temperature sensors monitor the temperature of the conditioned air leaving the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) housing and supplies an input signal to the HVAC module. The air duct temperature sensors change their internal resistance in response to the temperatures they monitor. The air outlet temperature sensors are connected to the HVAC module through a sensor ground circuit and a reference signal circuit. As the temperature of the conditioned air leaving the HVAC housing decreases, the internal resistance of the temperature sensor increases. As the temperature of the conditioned air leaving the HVAC housing increases, the internal resistance of the temperature sensor decreases.
The HVAC module uses the monitored voltage readings as an indication of air outlet temperature. The HVAC module is programmed to respond to this and other inputs by adjusting the blend and the mode air door positions, and by cycling the A/C clutch on and off as necessary in order to automatically adjust the HVAC system to the operator temperature preference setting.
The air duct temperature sensors are diagnosed using a scan tool. Refer to DIAGNOSTIC CODE INDEX .
The air outlet temperature sensors cannot be adjusted or repaired and must be replaced if inoperative or damaged.
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.