Buick Reatta 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 Buick Reatta Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $134 with $39 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
1989 Buick ReattaV6-3.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$198.07Shop/Dealer Price$228.84 - $298.65
1990 Buick ReattaV6-3.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$178.07Shop/Dealer Price$208.86 - $278.68
1988 Buick ReattaV6-3.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$178.07Shop/Dealer Price$208.86 - $278.68
1991 Buick ReattaV6-3.8LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$172.97Shop/Dealer Price$202.46 - $268.44
Show example Buick Reatta 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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Stephen

25 years of experience
48 reviews
Stephen
25 years of experience
Buick Reatta V6-3.8L - Parking / Emergency Brake does not work - Summerville, South Carolina
Very well informative and descriptive mechanic

Breck

20 years of experience
681 reviews
Breck
20 years of experience
Buick Reatta V6-3.8L - Water Pump - Houston, Texas
Breck arrived on time and performed repairs neatly and timely he was exceptional

Joshua

27 years of experience
709 reviews
Joshua
27 years of experience
Buick Reatta V6-3.8L - 1. passenger side headlight doesn't open, what will it cost fix (INSPECTION of headlight door not opening) - Suisun City, California
finally a mechanic a single woman can trust and be treated with respect...Joshua Floyd put me at ease and answered all my questions without making me feel stupid...when it's time to fix the problems that come my way with my car, I'll be calling and asking for Joshua to help me fix it...

Andrew

9 years of experience
41 reviews
Andrew
9 years of experience
Buick Reatta V6-3.8L - Brake Pads Replacement (Front, Rear) - Houston, Texas
On time and warm and friendly took care of repairs within short time frame.

Excellent Rating

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Rating Summary
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Number of Buick Reatta services completed
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