Scion tC 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 Scion tC Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $118 with $23 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
2005 Scion tCL4-2.4LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$197.15Shop/Dealer Price$227.69 - $296.81
2016 Scion tCL4-2.5LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$141.13Shop/Dealer Price$162.68 - $204.80
2015 Scion tCL4-2.5LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$203.85Shop/Dealer Price$241.08 - $330.24
2011 Scion tCL4-2.5LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$203.85Shop/Dealer Price$241.06 - $330.20
2010 Scion tCL4-2.4LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$177.15Shop/Dealer Price$207.72 - $276.87
2012 Scion tCL4-2.5LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$203.85Shop/Dealer Price$241.08 - $330.24
2008 Scion tCL4-2.4LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$182.15Shop/Dealer Price$212.57 - $281.60
2009 Scion tCL4-2.4LService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$208.85Shop/Dealer Price$246.32 - $335.66
Show example Scion tC 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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Lee

19 years of experience
113 reviews
Lee
19 years of experience
Scion tC L4-2.4L - Battery - Richmond, Virginia
Had my battery replaced. Took about ten minutes.

Nathaniel

16 years of experience
101 reviews
Nathaniel
16 years of experience
Scion tC L4-2.4L - Inspection / Diagnostics - Atlanta, Georgia
Nate was great! He called me a half an hour before the start time to let me know he was leaving soon. Finished the job quickly and did great work ! For reference I had my alternator replaced . I would hire him again!

Chris

15 years of experience
312 reviews
Chris
15 years of experience
Scion tC L4-2.4L - Clutch Master Cylinder - Vista, California
Showed up on time and completed the work quickly.

Dellano

18 years of experience
513 reviews
Dellano
18 years of experience
Scion tC L4-2.4L - Serpentine/Drive Belt - Beltsville, Maryland
Fast & Nice, highly recommend.

Excellent Rating

(433)

Rating Summary
406
17
2
0
8
406
17
2
0
8
Number of Scion tC services completed
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