P0536 OBD-II Trouble Code: A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

Our certified mechanics come to you · Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront

EXCELLENT RATING ON

Cost of diagnosing the P0536 code

P0536 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.

Cars Estimate* Credit towards follow-up repair Earliest Availability
Ford $154.99 $50.0
Toyota $154.99 $50.0
BMW $164.99 $50.0

*Estimates may vary by market

SCHEDULE P0536 DIAGNOSTIC Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront

P0536 code definition

The P0536 trouble code detects an issue with the A/C evaporator temperature sensor circuit.

What the P0536 code means

The P0536 code is a generic OBD-II trouble code that notes a problem with the A/C (air conditioner) evaporator temperature sensor. The temperature sensor is responsible for sending system voltage data to the powertrain control module (PCM), which then uses the information to help control the A/C system. When the PCM receives voltage readings that are excessively low or high, the P0536 trouble code will be detected.

What causes the P0536 code?

The P0536 trouble code is usually caused by a defective evaporator temperature sensor. However, there are a few other potential causes, such as:

  • Malfunctioning expansion valve (which results in an evaporator core freeze up)
  • Damaged electrical components, such as loose wires or corroded connectors
  • Overcharged A/C system
  • Low levels of refrigerant
  • Malfunctioning climate control head

What are the symptoms of the P0536 code?

The P0536 trouble code will usually be accompanied by the check engine soon Warning Light, and may also result in the A/C light on the climate controls flashing repeatedly. Most notably, when the P0536 code is detected, the air conditioning system will likely not be working. There may also be water drips from the system, which may be detectable from inside the vehicle.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0536 code?

The P0536 could should be diagnosed with the assistance of an OBD-II trouble code scanner. A trained technician will look at the freeze frame data from the scanner to assess the code, and to look for any additional codes that have been detected. The codes should then be reset, and the vehicle should be restarted. If the P0536 code does not return, it was likely erroneously detected, or possibly an intermittent issue.

If the code does return, the mechanic will start by visually assessing the electrical components of the A/C system. All of the wires and connectors should be checked to make sure they are in proper condition and working well. Any electrical components that are not up to standards should be replaced. In addition to this, the technician should check the refrigerant levels, and add more refrigerant if necessary.

Following these steps, an A/C gauge should be connected to the vehicle. The car can then be turned on, and the A/C and blower speed set to their highest settings. The mechanic can compare these readings to the manufacturer’s settings to help determine where the issue is arising. It is likely that the issue is coming from a failed evaporator temperature sensor, but the readings can both confirm that, and let a technician know if a larger issue is causing the sensor failure.

After any and all repairs, the codes should be reset and the vehicle restarted before the mechanic continues.

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0536 code

The most common mistake made when diagnosing the P0536 code comes from a failure to adhere to the OBD-II trouble code diagnosis protocol. The diagnosis protocol should always be followed exactly, to ensure that the inspection is performed correctly, and in the most efficient order.

It is fairly common for refrigerant to be added as a solution, even when the refrigerant levels are sufficient. This can result in excess refrigerant, which can be very harmful to the system.

How serious is the P0536 code?

A vehicle with the P0536 code is still very drivable, but the air conditioning system is unlikely to work. Since you never know when you’ll need your air conditioning, it’s important to have the system inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

What repairs can fix the P0536 code?

Some of the fixes for the P0536 code include:

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0536 code

After the problem has been repaired, it’s a good idea for the mechanic to use the A/C gauge to make sure that all components are functioning properly.

Need help with a P0536 code?

YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.

Check Engine Light
trouble codes
P0536

No more waiting rooms! Our mechanics will come to you to diagnose and fix the P0536 code.

SCHEDULE P0536 DIAGNOSTIC
Get a $50 credit for the follow-up repair

Recent Check Engine Light is on Inspection reviews

Excellent Rating

(8600)

Rating Summary
8017
273
65
46
199
8017
273
65
46
199
 at YourMechanic

Brandon

9 years of experience
133 reviews
Brandon
9 years of experience
Ford Escort L4-2.0L - Check Engine Light is on - Nashville, Tennessee
Brandon showed up ahead of schedule, was very personable and diagnosed my problems. He also scheduled my next appointments which will be with him.
 at YourMechanic

William

23 years of experience
33 reviews
William
23 years of experience
Lexus IS250 V6-2.5L - Check Engine Light is on - Mableton, Georgia
Arrived early which was great. William was courteous, and attentive to the issue. Even though it took several attempts I'm so happy he was determined to fix it and he did!
 at YourMechanic

Dan

40 years of experience
1080 reviews
Dan
40 years of experience
Plymouth Grand Voyager - Check Engine Light is on - Lawrenceville, Georgia
Mr. Dan Barber was quite patient, courteous and quite knowledgeable. From my observation, Mr. Barber appears to be quite professional.
 at YourMechanic

Christopher

9 years of experience
120 reviews
Christopher
9 years of experience
Ford Fiesta L4-1.6L - Check Engine Light is on - Smyrna, Georgia
Chris communicated with us each step of the way up until his arrival. He listened well, was knowledgeable, and was prepared. He took the time to diagnose the problem, explained the what, why and how and provided a solution. I would definitely recommend him and will use him again.


More related articles

P2701 OBD-II Trouble Code: Transmission Friction Element B Apply Time Range/Performance
P2701 P2701 code definition Transmission Friction Element B Apply Time Range/Performance What the P2701 code means P2701 is an OBD-II generic code for the engine control module (ECM) (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/what-is-a-vehicle-s-electrical-control-unit) or the transmission control module (TCM) detecting a problem with the...
P2779 OBD-II Trouble Code: Downshift Switch Circuit Range/Performance
P2779 means a problem with the downshift switch circuit usually caused by liquid that has spilled on the switch or other electrical issues.
P2753 OBD-II Trouble Code: Transmission Fluid Cooler Circuit Low
P2753 means the transmission cooler control is malfunctioning usually due to a bad valve or sensor or other electrical issues or problems.

Related questions

Check Engine light, misfiring , and hard to steer
The first thing I would recommend is to have your vehicle scanned for trouble codes with an OBD2 scanner by a qualified technician who will be able to understand the code that is retrieved. If the code does come up...
Engine light On and car jerks from 2000-3000rpm
Continual failure of the camshaft sensor may suggest that you have some bad wiring leading to the plug where the cam sensor is plugged in. The internal circuitry and the wires that connect the sensor to power and to the...
p0420
A vehicle with 182,000 miles is likely due for a catalytic converter. Most of the time it does mean you need a new catalytic converter. But there are a couple of other things that are prudent to take a look...

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (855) 347-2779 · hi@yourmechanic.com