External Temp Sensor: What's it for?
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 92
Likes: 4
External Temp Sensor: What's it for?
My HVAC controller indicates an incorrect temperature for external temp. The previous owner told me he believes the External Temp Sensor is bad.
What is the total list of systems on the C5 that use the data from the External Temp Sensor??
If it's used for calculations while running the AC or heat, or perhaps even somehow impacts the PCM fueling decisions or any other engine decisions, there's no doubt I want to fix the part. However, if the only thing that part is accomplishing on my car is to tell me a temperature I can guess by sticking my hand out the window, I'd like to ignore this problem entirely and stay focused on my long list of upgrades I have planned.
What is the total list of systems on the C5 that use the data from the External Temp Sensor??
If it's used for calculations while running the AC or heat, or perhaps even somehow impacts the PCM fueling decisions or any other engine decisions, there's no doubt I want to fix the part. However, if the only thing that part is accomplishing on my car is to tell me a temperature I can guess by sticking my hand out the window, I'd like to ignore this problem entirely and stay focused on my long list of upgrades I have planned.
Drifting
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,773
Likes: 66
From: SoCal
My HVAC controller indicates an incorrect temperature for external temp. The previous owner told me he believes the External Temp Sensor is bad.
What is the total list of systems on the C5 that use the data from the External Temp Sensor??
If it's used for calculations while running the AC or heat, or perhaps even somehow impacts the PCM fueling decisions or any other engine decisions, there's no doubt I want to fix the part. However, if the only thing that part is accomplishing on my car is to tell me a temperature I can guess by sticking my hand out the window, I'd like to ignore this problem entirely and stay focused on my long list of upgrades I have planned.
What is the total list of systems on the C5 that use the data from the External Temp Sensor??
If it's used for calculations while running the AC or heat, or perhaps even somehow impacts the PCM fueling decisions or any other engine decisions, there's no doubt I want to fix the part. However, if the only thing that part is accomplishing on my car is to tell me a temperature I can guess by sticking my hand out the window, I'd like to ignore this problem entirely and stay focused on my long list of upgrades I have planned.
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 92
Likes: 4
It is used for the HVAC calculations. If it reads 32 degrees and it's 90 degrees outside and you turn on the A/C, you won't get A/C. Been there done that. If you want the HVAC to work properly, you will need to get that fixed. That sensor has no bearing on engine functions.
Thanks dude
Tech Contributor
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 32,910
Likes: 2,402
From: Anthony TX
CI 6,7,8,9,11 Vet
St. Jude Donor '08
WOW! Wait till you have a drive train failure! 
Owning a performance sports car that is as old as the C5 is ALWAYS, ONE MORE PART TO REPLACE. 
Owning a performance sports car that is as old as the C5 is ALWAYS, ONE MORE PART TO REPLACE.
Last edited by Bill Curlee; Feb 27, 2018 at 04:08 PM.
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 3,938
Likes: 498
From: Fords, NJ
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 3,938
Likes: 498
From: Fords, NJ
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