Kia Optima: Air Conditioning System / Photo Sensor
Description and operation
The photo sensor is located at the center of the defrost nozzles.
The photo sensor contains a photovoltaic (sensitive to sunlight) diode. The solar
radiation received by its light receiving portion, generates an electromotive force
in proportion to the amount of radiation received which is transferred to the automatic
temperature control module so that the solar radiation compensation will be performed.
Repair procedures
1. |
Turn the ignition switch ON.
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3. |
Emit intensive light toward the photo sensor using a lamp, and check
the output voltage change.
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4. |
The voltage will rise with higher intensive light and reduce with lower
intensive light.

1. Auto light ground
2. Auto light power (5V)
3. Auto light signal
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4. Photo signal (RH)
5. Photo power
6. Photo signal (LH)
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• |
When removing with a flat-tip screwdriver or remover, wrap protective
tape around the tools to prevent damage to components.
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• |
Use a plastic panel removal tool to remove interior trim pieces
without marring the surface.
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Take care not to bend or scratch the trim and panels.
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• |
Put on gloves to prevent hand injuries.
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1. |
Disconnect the negative (-) battery terminal.
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2. |
Using a remover and remove the photo sensor (A).

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3. |
Press the lock pin and separate the photo sensor connector (A).

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4. |
To install, reverse the removal procedure.
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Make sure connectors are connected properly.
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Description and operation
Description
The In-car air temperature sensor is built in the heater & A/C control unit.
The sensor contains a thermistor which measures the temperature ...
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; res ...
Other information:
Fog lights are used to provide improved visibility when visibility is poor due
to fog, rain or snow, etc. The fog lights will turn on when the fog light switch
(1) is turned to the on position after the headlights are turned on.
To turn off the fog lights, turn the switch (1) to the off posit ...
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 o ...