Toyota Prius 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 Toyota Prius 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 Toyota PriusL4-1.5L HybridService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$197.15Shop/Dealer Price$227.69 - $296.81
2003 Toyota PriusL4-1.5L HybridService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$177.15Shop/Dealer Price$207.71 - $276.84
2001 Toyota PriusL4-1.5L HybridService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$236.85Shop/Dealer Price$282.33 - $396.24
2018 Toyota PriusL4-1.8L HybridService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$216.95Shop/Dealer Price$257.44 - $356.40
2010 Toyota PriusL4-1.8L HybridService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$177.15Shop/Dealer Price$207.72 - $276.87
2013 Toyota PriusL4-1.8L HybridService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$203.85Shop/Dealer Price$241.08 - $330.24
2004 Toyota PriusL4-1.5L HybridService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$182.15Shop/Dealer Price$212.57 - $281.60
2012 Toyota PriusL4-1.8L HybridService typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) ReplacementEstimate$208.85Shop/Dealer Price$246.32 - $335.66
Show example Toyota Prius 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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Jason

15 years of experience
344 reviews
Jason
15 years of experience
Toyota Prius L4-1.5L Hybrid - Trunk Latch Adjustment - Brooklyn, New York
Jason was very kind, diligent and thorough. He communicated about his findings, his process and advise for the near future. I am thrilled with his work and will absolutely be requesting his help again and would recommend him to anyone I know. THANKS JASON!!

Nick

10 years of experience
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Nick
10 years of experience
Toyota Prius L4-1.8L Hybrid - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Loomis, California
Nick was very thorough in his pre purchase inspection. Not only did he do a great job in the inspecting process he was customer friendly. I guarantee after hiring Nick you will know more about your vehicle. A great guy and an asset to your mechanic website.

Alexis

30 years of experience
94 reviews
Alexis
30 years of experience
Toyota Prius L4-1.8L Hybrid - ABS Light is on - Miami, Florida
Showed up on time and explained exactly what was going on

Patrick

33 years of experience
1408 reviews
Patrick
33 years of experience
Toyota Prius L4-1.5L Hybrid - Car is not starting - Austin, Texas
Patrick was fantastic. Flexible schedule and responsive communication. Quality service. Thanks Patrick!

Excellent Rating

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Rating Summary
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