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Where is the outside temperature sensor on a Ford Escape?

The outside temperature sensor on a Ford Escape is typically located behind the front grille, near the bottom of the vehicle. This sensor is responsible for providing the outside air temperature reading that is displayed on the vehicle's dashboard or infotainment system.


Locating the Outside Temperature Sensor


The outside temperature sensor on a Ford Escape is usually positioned in a spot that allows it to accurately measure the ambient air temperature outside the vehicle. This is typically near the front of the car, where the airflow is unobstructed and the sensor can get a clear reading of the outside conditions.


To locate the outside temperature sensor on your Ford Escape, you can follow these steps:



  • Open the front hood of your vehicle.

  • Locate the front grille, which is the large opening at the front of the car.

  • Carefully inspect the area behind the grille, near the bottom of the vehicle.

  • The outside temperature sensor will be a small, cylindrical or rectangular device, often mounted on a bracket or directly on the vehicle's frame.


The exact location of the sensor may vary slightly depending on the model year and specific configuration of your Ford Escape, but it will generally be found in this general area behind the front grille.


Importance of the Outside Temperature Sensor


The outside temperature sensor plays a crucial role in the operation of your Ford Escape. It provides the vehicle's computer with real-time information about the ambient air temperature, which is used to adjust various systems and settings, such as:



  • Climate control system: The sensor helps the climate control system maintain the desired cabin temperature by adjusting the air conditioning or heating output.

  • Fuel management: The sensor's data is used to optimize the fuel-air mixture for better engine performance and fuel efficiency.

  • Traction control: The outside temperature information can be used by the traction control system to detect and respond to slippery road conditions.

  • Windshield wiper operation: The sensor may trigger the windshield wipers to activate in response to changes in outside temperature, such as when it's raining or snowing.


By accurately measuring the outside temperature, the sensor ensures that your Ford Escape's various systems can function optimally and provide you with a comfortable and safe driving experience.

How do you reset the ambient air temperature sensor on a 2017 Ford Escape?


The multiple button reset for the Ambient Air Temperature (AAT) sensor is as follows: On the HVAC panel controls, press the A/C and Recirc buttons simultaneously, then, release both.



What are the symptoms of a bad outside temperature sensor?


A malfunctioning ATS can lead to various symptoms in a vehicle. Common signs of a faulty ATS include: Reduced Engine Performance: Inaccurate temperature readings can cause the ECM to make incorrect adjustments to the air-fuel mixture, resulting in decreased engine power, acceleration, and responsiveness.



What happens when the ambient air temperature sensor is bad?


A bad ambient temperature air sensor hampers your vehicle's HVAC system. While it can't stop you from going for a drive, it can make the trip less comfortable, especially when it's freezing or scorching hot. Fortunately, CarParts.com won't make you wait long for a replacement ambient temperature sensor.



How do I reset my outside temperature sensor on my Ford?


Disconnect the Battery: To reset the sensor, disconnect the battery for a few minutes. This step will reset the vehicle's electrical system, including the outside temperature sensor.



What are the symptoms of a bad outside air temperature sensor?


  • Compressor Clutch Won't Engage. This doesn't happen on every vehicle when the ambient sensor input is lost.
  • Incorrect Temperature Gauge Reading. An inaccurate reading on the vehicle's message center is another indicator of a damaged or failed sensor.
  • The HVAC System's Automatic Mode Won't Work.



Where is the ambient air temperature sensor on a Ford Escape?


Yes, that sensor is located behind the left front grill.



Where is the outside air temperature sensor located?


It is typically located in the front grille, front bumper, or wing mirror cover, where it is exposed to the outside air.



Where is my temperature sensor located?


The coolant temperature sensor will be located directly behind the coolant pipe. In most modern cars and vehicles, this is present behind the right cylinder head that is located right underneath the air intake pipe. Will a malfunctioning Coolant Temperature Sensor cause a check engine light?



Why is my car reading the wrong outside temperature while driving?


Most are behind the grill. This means it's closer to the ground and the reading is impacted by the heat from the road. And those temperatures. Are On The Higher Side than grass or Shady surfaces.



Where are car outside temperature sensors located?


Most sensors are located near the front bumper. This keeps them far enough away from the engine to keep its heat from being a factor in determining the outside temperature. If the sun is beating down on the front bumper, then the temperature may appear higher than the air feels to you.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.