What it means
The control module monitors the signal from ambient air temperature sensor B. It sets this code when the signal rises above the expected range.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
How it works
Ambient air temperature sensor B measures outside air at its particular sensing location, which may be separate from sensor A. The control module monitors its signal and sets P00DC when that signal rises above the expected electrical range; an open circuit, poor connection, failed sensor, or short to voltage can cause this high-signal condition.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Open signal wire or poor connector contact
- Failed sensor B
- Signal wire shorted to voltage
Symptoms
- Check-engine light on
- Outside-temperature display may be inaccurate
- Climate control may respond incorrectly
How to diagnose it
- Review freeze-frame data and live sensor B readings to see whether the reading is fixed at an extreme or implausible for the ambient conditions.
- Inspect the sensor B connector and harness for an unplugged connector, broken wire, corrosion, or loose pins.
- Check the signal circuit for an open or short to voltage using the manufacturer's wiring information.
- Test sensor B and its circuit against the manufacturer's specification to distinguish a sensor fault from a wiring fault.
- After repair, verify that the live reading changes plausibly as ambient temperature changes.
Common fixes
- Reconnect or repair an open or damaged wire at sensor B.
- Repair a short to voltage or poor connector contact in the sensor B circuit.
- Replace ambient air temperature sensor B if it fails the manufacturer's test.
Can I keep driving?
This fault usually affects the outside-temperature display or climate-control response rather than engine operation, so normal driving is generally possible. Arrange diagnosis if the inaccurate reading causes climate control to work poorly.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.