Kia Optima DL3: Air Conditioning System / Ambient Temperature Sensor

Kia Optima DL3 2019-2026 Service and Repair Manual / Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning / Air Conditioning System / Ambient Temperature Sensor

Description and operation

Description

The ambient temperature sensor is located at the front of the condenser and detects ambient air temperature. It is a negative type thermistor; resistance will increase with lower temperature, and decrease with higher temperature.

The sensor output will be used for discharge temperature control, temperature regulation door control, blower motor level control, mix mode control and in-car humidity control.

•	If the ambient temperature is below 2.0°C (35.6°F), the A/C compressor will stop. The compressor will operate manually.

Repair procedures

Inspection

Check the resistance of the ambient temperature sensor between terminals 1 and 2 whether it changes by changing the ambient temperature.

1. Ambient Sensor (+)

2. Sensor ground

Specification

Ambient temperature [°C(°F)]	Resistance between terminal 1 and 2 (kΩ)
-30 (-22)	480.41
-20 (-4)	271.21
-10 (14)	158.18
0 (32)	95.10
10 (50)	58.50
20 (68)	37.32
30 (86)	24.26
40 (104)	16.13
50 (122)	10.95

Replacement

1.	Disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal.

2.	Remove the front bumper assembly. (Refer to Body - "Front Bumper Assembly")

3.	Separate the connector (A) and remove the ambient temperature sensor (B).

To install, reverse the removal procedure.

•	Make sure connectors are connected properly.

❮Photo Sensor

Description and operation Description The photo sensor is located at the center of the defrost nozzles. The photo sensor contains a photovoltaic (sensitive to sunlight) diode.

Auto Defogging Sensor❯

Description and operation Description The auto defogging sensor is installed on the front window glass. The sensor judges and sends signal if moisture occurs to blow out wind for defogging.

Other information:

Kia Optima DL3 2019-2026 Service and Repair Manual: Air Conditioning System

General safety information and caution Instructions (R-134a) When Handling Refrigerant 1. R-134a liquid refrigerant is highly volatile. A drop on the skin of your hand could result in localized frostbite. When handling the refrigerant, be sure to wear gloves.

Kia Optima DL3 2019-2026 Service and Repair Manual: Heater Control Unit