Dakota Quad Cab 2WD V8-4.7L VIN N (2001)
Ambient Temperature Sensor / Switch HVAC: Description and Operation
Ambient air temperature is monitored by the compass mini-trip computer module through the ambient temperature sensor. The ambient temperature
sensor is a variable resistor mounted to a bracket that is secured with a screw to the right side of the radiator yoke, behind the radiator grille and in front
of the engine compartment.
The ambient temperature sensor cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
The ambient temperature sensor is a variable resistor that operates on a five-volt reference signal sent to it by the HVAC control head unit. The
resistance in the sensor changes as temperature changes, changing the temperature sensor signal circuit voltage to the HVAC control head unit. Based
upon the resistance in the sensor, the HVAC control head unit senses a specific voltage on the temperature sensor signal circuit, which it is programmed
to correspond to a specific temperature.
