Acura SLX 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 Acura SLX Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $169 with $74 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
1996 Acura SLXV6-3.2LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$263.45Shop/Dealer Price$318.07 - $442.54
1998 Acura SLXV6-3.5LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$243.45Shop/Dealer Price$298.10 - $422.59
1997 Acura SLXV6-3.2LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$243.45Shop/Dealer Price$298.10 - $422.59
1999 Acura SLXV6-3.5LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$243.45Shop/Dealer Price$298.06 - $422.52
Show example Acura SLX 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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Godwin

24 years of experience
253 reviews
Godwin
24 years of experience
Acura TSX L4-2.4L - Starter - Walnut, California
My car has been having a slow start issue for the past year and I was finally unable to start it despite having a relatively new battery. So after many searches online, I had my first Yourmechanic service today for my starter change. The repair was performed by Godwin and I have to say it was a great experience. Godwin is extremely helpful and finished the job quickly (despite the shop gave him the wrong starter model at the beginning). It was a pleasure talking to him and learning more about my car. Definitely a 5 stars! Highly recommended!

William

34 years of experience
546 reviews
William
34 years of experience
Acura TL V6-3.2L - Wheel Stud Replacement (Passenger Side Front) - Surprise, Arizona
Showed up on time . Great person very knowledgeable on cars from his past experience working for many years !

Toby

10 years of experience
100 reviews
Toby
10 years of experience
Acura TSX L4-2.4L - Oil Change - Grapevine, Texas
Toby was AMAZING. He showed up perfectly on time and changed my oil even in the rain. He was very professional and I will definitely be using him again. Thanks!

David

42 years of experience
220 reviews
David
42 years of experience
Acura TL V6-3.2L - Check Engine Light is on - Atlanta, Georgia

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