Kia Rio5 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 Kia Rio5 Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $216 with $121 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
2011 Kia Rio5L4-1.6LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$356.83Shop/Dealer Price$427.29 - $616.17
2007 Kia Rio5L4-1.6LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$336.83Shop/Dealer Price$407.31 - $596.20
2006 Kia Rio5L4-1.6LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$336.83Shop/Dealer Price$407.31 - $596.20
2008 Kia Rio5L4-1.6LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$336.83Shop/Dealer Price$407.29 - $596.16
2010 Kia Rio5L4-1.6LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$336.83Shop/Dealer Price$407.32 - $596.23
2009 Kia Rio5L4-1.6LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$336.83Shop/Dealer Price$407.31 - $596.20
Show example Kia Rio5 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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Breck

20 years of experience
681 reviews
Breck
20 years of experience
Kia Rio5 L4-1.6L - Brake Pads Replacement (Front) - Houston, Texas
Breck is a fantastic mechanic, and the nicest guy you’ll meet.

Tien

23 years of experience
903 reviews
Tien
23 years of experience
Kia Rio5 L4-1.6L - Car is not starting - Oakland, California
No complaints. Happy w\ service provided. Tien Phan was polite, friendly, and he did good job explaining the work being completed and reccommended. Tien did a great job replacing battery and performing diagnostic inspection. Will recommend your mechanic.com and Tien Plan. Thanks again.

Christopher

10 years of experience
115 reviews
Christopher
10 years of experience
Kia Rio5 L4-1.6L - Fan speed control is not working - Katy, Texas
Professional on time and explains everything that’s going on. I hope to find him the next time I use your mechanic.

Richard

13 years of experience
601 reviews
Richard
13 years of experience
Kia Rio5 L4-1.6L - Oil Change - Las Vegas, Nevada
Excellent service

Excellent Rating

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Rating Summary
29
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Number of Kia Rio5 services completed
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services done by our mechanics
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