Mercedes-Benz R320 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 Mercedes-Benz R320 Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $136 with $41 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
2007 Mercedes-Benz R320V6-3.0L Turbo DieselService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$196.37Shop/Dealer Price$234.22 - $308.38
2008 Mercedes-Benz R320V6-3.0L Turbo DieselService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$176.37Shop/Dealer Price$214.25 - $288.43
2009 Mercedes-Benz R320V6-3.0L Turbo DieselService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$176.37Shop/Dealer Price$214.25 - $288.43
Show example Mercedes-Benz R320 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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Tung

16 years of experience
310 reviews
Tung
16 years of experience
Mercedes-Benz R320 V6-3.0L Turbo Diesel - Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Tube - Marietta, Georgia
Tung worked hard and got the job done! Highly recommended.

Ben

41 years of experience
1426 reviews
Ben
41 years of experience
Mercedes-Benz R320 V6-3.0L Turbo Diesel - Oil Change - Katy, Texas

Chris

16 years of experience
331 reviews
Chris
16 years of experience
Mercedes-Benz R320 V6-3.0L Turbo Diesel - Serpentine/Drive Belt - Spring Valley, California
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Dellano

18 years of experience
518 reviews
Dellano
18 years of experience
Mercedes-Benz CLK550 V8-5.5L - Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement - Bowie, Maryland
Very pleasant, and efficient. Knowledgeable about repair. Was able to come ahead of scheduled appointment time which was much appreciated.

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Number of Mercedes-Benz Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement services completed
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