Volvo 780 Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement Costs

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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 Volvo 780 Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement is $132 with $37 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

Car	Service	Estimate	Shop/Dealer Price
1990 Volvo 780V6-2.8L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$355.91	Shop/Dealer Price$426.14 - $614.33
1989 Volvo 780V6-2.8L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$335.91	Shop/Dealer Price$406.16 - $594.36
1990 Volvo 780L4-2.3L Turbo	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$169.25	Shop/Dealer Price$197.83 - $261.04
1987 Volvo 780V6-2.8L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$335.91	Shop/Dealer Price$406.14 - $594.32
1991 Volvo 780L4-2.3L Turbo	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$169.25	Shop/Dealer Price$197.85 - $261.07
1988 Volvo 780V6-2.8L	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$335.91	Shop/Dealer Price$406.16 - $594.36
1989 Volvo 780L4-2.3L Turbo	Service typeAmbient Temperature Sensor (Switch) Replacement	Estimate$174.25	Shop/Dealer Price$202.70 - $265.80

Show example Volvo 780 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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Krystal

17 years of experience

106 reviews

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Krystal

17 years of experience

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by Yolanda.

Volvo S40 L5-2.4L - Ambient Temperature Sensor (Switch) - Country Club Hills, Illinois

Krystal is very professional. She was earlier than the original appointment. She showed me the new part that she brought with her. It took less than an hour and she explained what she did and possible other solutions if my problem is not resolved. I would request her the next time that I need service. Kudos to Krystal!!!

John

6 years of experience

35 reviews

John

6 years of experience

by tom

Volvo XC90 L6-3.2L - Car is not starting - Seattle, Washington

Sharp guy. Hooked up his $5000 diagnostic tool and found that a fault in the transmission was causing the control module to "deny start". He turned off this command with his diagnostic tool and the car started, and the fault did not return. John recommend to have the car repaired, that it was likely to have the fault again sometime later, and may "deny start" again. He found a relay that was likely going bad and perhaps causing the fault. I will replace that relay just in case The whole cost was $117, less than a tow to the repair shop.

Robert

22 years of experience

291 reviews

Robert

22 years of experience

by Scott

Volvo 244 L4-2.3L - Car is hard to start Inspection - Coppell, Texas

We had an excellent experience with Robert. In advance of his arrival, he let us know he was on the way, and then arrived right on time. He spent a lot of time inspecting and checking multiple systems on the car, and was able to get the car running (as we initially requested). As he inspected the car, he asked me numerous questions about the car and showed me things he was inspecting, so I could them in real time. Robert made what I think are good recommendations for additional maintenance, and we will schedule a follow-up appointment with him. Lastly, Robert was personable and has a pleasant demeanor. Overall, it was excellent experience.

Theodore

16 years of experience

1610 reviews

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Theodore

16 years of experience

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by Shannon

Volvo V40 L4-1.9L Turbo - Strut Assembly Replacement (Front) - Kenmore, Washington

Theodore was prepared, and efficient.

Excellent Rating

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Rating Summary

1,387

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