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.
Outside temperature sensor
The outside temperature sensor detects the temperature in the surrounding air. The signal is used by the engine control module (ECM) as a substitute value in the event of a fault in certain components or functions and to control certain diagnostic functions.
The sensor is a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) type which is supplied with power from the control module (signal) and is grounded in the control module.
The resistance in the sensor, which provides a signal between 0.1-4.7 V, changes depending on the outside temperature. Low temperatures produce high voltage (high resistance), high temperatures produce low voltage (low resistance).
The outside temperature sensor is positioned in the left door mirror.
The engine control module (ECM) can diagnose the outside temperature sensor. The sensor value can be read off using VIDA.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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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.
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