Where is the outside temperature sensor on a Ford Transit?
The outside air temperature sensor on most Ford Transits sits behind the front bumper, usually tucked into the bumper or near the fog-light area; the exact spot varies by model year and trim.
This article outlines the common locations you’re likely to encounter on modern Transits and how to identify the sensor, so you can inspect or replace it if readings seem off.
Typical locations on modern Ford Transits
Below are the most commonly reported placements across recent Transit generations. Start by looking behind the front bumper and work outward toward visible openings or housings.
- Behind the front bumper cover, near the outer edge where the bumper meets the side; the sensor is usually tucked into the bumper near the fog-light housing or lower grille.
- In a small access recess or cutout on the bumper’s lower portion, sometimes with a removable plug or panel for service access.
- Behind the bumper’s central air intake area or behind a grille-style opening in some trims, requiring bumper removal for full access.
- In a minority of configurations, mounted close to the wheel arch behind the bumper, accessible from underneath after removing protective splash shields.
If you still can’t locate it after inspecting the bumper and grille areas, consult the vehicle’s service manual or a Ford dealer for model-year specific guidance.
How to confirm and service the sensor
Once you’ve found the sensor, you’ll want to confirm it’s the correct unit and check for common issues such as damage or corrosion in the connector. Use these steps as a quick guide.
- Inspect the two-wire connector for corrosion, bends, or loose pins; unplug carefully and reseat the connector.
- Check the sensor body for physical damage or contamination from mud, snow, or debris; clean if feasible with a soft brush and gentle wipe.
- Verify wiring integrity by tracing the loom back to the harness; look for cracked insulation or obvious wear near the bumper edge.
- If readings remain inconsistent, have the system diagnosed with a Ford-compatible scan tool or at a dealership, since external temperature data can be tied to the Body Control Module.
Note that some diagnostic tools may not read the outside air temperature sensor directly; professional inspection may be required for accurate troubleshooting.
Summary
In most Ford Transits, the outside temperature sensor is located behind the front bumper, commonly near the fog-light housing or the lower grille. Locations can vary by generation and trim, so if you can’t find it, check the service manual or consult a Ford technician. A visual inspection of the sensor and connector often reveals common issues such as corrosion or loose wiring, which are frequent culprits behind erratic temperature readings.
How do you reset the ambient temperature sensor on a Ford Transit?
Press and hold both the recirculation and AC buttons at the same time. Let go and then press the AC button. This will instantly reset the ambient air temperature sensor and get your AC rolling again. You're welcome.
Where is the outside temperature sensor located?
The outside temperature sensor is most commonly found in the front of a vehicle, usually behind the front grille or bumper, to get unobstructed airflow. Some manufacturers place it in other locations, such as inside a wing mirror housing or behind a headlight.
This video shows the typical location of a temperature sensor behind the front bumper: 1mMACTFORDEDGEYouTube · Jul 8, 2021
- Common locations: Look behind the front bumper or grille, as this is the most frequent placement. The sensor is usually mounted on a support beam and is exposed to the outside air.
- Alternative locations: Some cars might have the sensor in an unusual spot. Check the passenger-side wing mirror housing, as this is another common placement that keeps it away from the engine's heat.
- How to access: Accessing the sensor often requires removing the bumper cover, though sometimes it is accessible by just removing a top cover or the headlight.
- Why it's in the front: Placing the sensor at the front ensures it gets the most accurate reading of the ambient air temperature, away from the engine's heat.
- For a building: In a building, an outside air temperature sensor should be mounted in the shade, away from heat sources like windows, doors, or vents. The north side of the building is ideal in the Northern Hemisphere.
Where is the temperature sensor on a 2017 Ford Transit?
The temperature sensor, located under the intake manifold, monitors engine coolant temperature. A blown fuse usually indicates a short circuit or faulty sensor causing fan failure. Start by inspecting the fuse box for blown fuses and replace them. Check wiring harnesses for damage or corrosion near the sensor.
Where is the ambient temperature sensor on a 2016 Ford Transit?
Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Replacement
This sensor is commonly located behind the grille or elsewhere on the front of the vehicle in a position that allows it to sense the temperature of the surrounding air.
