BMW 325i 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 325i Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $158 with $63 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
2004 BMW 325iL6-2.5LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$241.47Shop/Dealer Price$290.59 - $398.58
2006 BMW 325iL6-3.0LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$648.93Shop/Dealer Price$776.98 - $944.17
2003 BMW 325iL6-2.5LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$221.47Shop/Dealer Price$270.62 - $378.63
2005 BMW 325iL6-2.5LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$221.47Shop/Dealer Price$270.58 - $378.56
2001 BMW 325iL6-2.5LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$253.35Shop/Dealer Price$310.50 - $442.44
2002 BMW 325iL6-2.5LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$253.35Shop/Dealer Price$310.47 - $442.39
Show example BMW 325i 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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Rating Summary
397
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4
2
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397
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Alejandro

10 years of experience
21 reviews
Alejandro
10 years of experience
325i 2004 - Oil/Fluid Leak - Los Angeles, CA
Excellent mechanic

Alejandro

10 years of experience
21 reviews
Alejandro
10 years of experience
325i 2004 - Smog Check Service - Los Angeles, CA
Excellent mechanic

Christopher

20 years of experience
29 reviews
Christopher
20 years of experience
325i 2006 - Starter - Alpharetta, GA
Chris came out and replaced a starter on a BMW. He was very professional and explained all the work that needed to be done. Definitely would recommend.

Daniel

8 years of experience
37 reviews
Daniel
8 years of experience
325i 2002 - Air Filter - Henderson, NV
Very helpful, and worked fast! Answered questions, and gave explanations.

Excellent Rating

(416)

Rating Summary
397
11
4
2
2
397
11
4
2
2
Number of BMW 325i services completed
4576+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT BMW MECHANICS
1100+
experts on our platform

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