BMW 323Ci 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 BMW 323Ci Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $174 with $79 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
2000 BMW 323CiL6-2.5LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$273.35Shop/Dealer Price$330.44 - $462.34
Show example BMW 323Ci 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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(18)

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Shawn

12 years of experience
291 reviews
Shawn
12 years of experience
BMW 323Ci L6-2.5L - Parking / Emergency Brake does not work - Coatesville, Pennsylvania
Knowledgeable and very courteous

Shaun

10 years of experience
542 reviews
Shaun
10 years of experience
BMW 323Ci L6-2.5L - Coolant Reservoir - Phoenix, Arizona
As soon as Shaun showed up and started working, I knew immediately he knew his stuff! The problem with high-end cars is that everyone thinks that you might have a little $$$, and right from the start, you can see the wheels turning on how they (the mechanic) can make more on the customer. Shaun was straight to the point and told me just what the deal was and what it took to take care of it. I don't know where you all got this "YourMechanic" concept from, but I wish that I had known about you all years ago! Good looking out Shaun and thanks for a job well done! I'm getting a quote as we speak on the 100,000 mile service that you suggested :o)!

Jeffrey

27 years of experience
870 reviews
Jeffrey
27 years of experience
BMW 323Ci L6-2.5L - Serpentine/Drive Belt - Charlotte, North Carolina
Such a help. Went above and beyond the call of duty. Thanks

Rigoberto

11 years of experience
739 reviews
Rigoberto
11 years of experience
BMW 323Ci L6-2.5L - Car is not starting - Chicago, Illinois
He was very helpful, honest, professional and knowledgeable about BMWs

Excellent Rating

(18)

Rating Summary
16
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Number of BMW 323Ci services completed
198+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT BMW MECHANICS
1100+
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