P0070: Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit

This code means that there is a problem with the ambient air temperature sensor or its circuit. This sensor measures the temperature of the air outside the vehicle and sends a signal to the engine control module (ECM) or powertrain control module (PCM).

The ECM or PCM uses this information to adjust the fuel injection, ignition timing, and air conditioning system. The ambient air temperature sensor also displays the outside temperature on the instrument cluster or overhead console.

What Causes the P0070 Code?

The P0070 code can be caused by various factors, such as:

• A faulty ambient air temperature sensor
• An open or short circuit in the sensor’s wiring
• A damaged or corroded connector
• A voltage or ground problem in the sensor’s circuit
• A road debris or other object hitting the sensor
• A failed ECM or PCM (rare)

How to Diagnose the P0070 Code?

To diagnose the P0070 code, you will need a scan tool, a digital multimeter, and a wiring diagram for your vehicle. Follow these steps to troubleshoot the code:

• Connect the scan tool to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve the stored codes and freeze frame data. Note down any other codes that may be related to the ambient air temperature sensor, such as P0112, P0113, P0117, P0118, etc.
• Clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if the code returns. If it does, proceed to the next step. If it does not, the problem may be intermittent or caused by a loose connection.
• Locate the ambient air temperature sensor on your vehicle. It is usually mounted in front of the radiator, behind the grille or bumper. Visually inspect the sensor and its wiring for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Repair or replace any faulty components as needed.
• Disconnect the sensor connector and check for voltage and ground on the wiring harness side using the multimeter and wiring diagram. You should have battery voltage on one wire and a good ground on another wire. If not, trace the wires and repair any open or short circuits as needed.
• Check for resistance across the sensor terminals using the multimeter and wiring diagram. The resistance should vary according to the ambient temperature. Refer to your vehicle’s service manual for the specific resistance values for your sensor. If the resistance is out of range, replace the sensor.
• Reconnect the sensor connector and check for voltage on the signal wire using the multimeter and wiring diagram. The voltage should also vary according to the ambient temperature. Refer to your vehicle’s service manual for the specific voltage values for your sensor. If the voltage is out of range, replace the sensor.
• If all tests are passed, but the code persists, you may have a faulty ECM or PCM. However, this is very rare and should be confirmed by a professional technician before replacing any expensive components.

How to Fix the P0070 Code?

Depending on the cause of the P0070 code, you may need to do one or more of the following to fix it:

• Replace the ambient air temperature sensor
• Repair or replace any damaged or corroded wiring or connectors
• Repair any open or short circuits in the sensor’s circuit
• Replace the ECM or PCM (rare)

What are the Symptoms of the P0070 Code?

The P0070 code may not cause any noticeable drivability issues, but it may affect some functions of your vehicle, such as:

• The check engine light may be on
• The air conditioning system may not perform properly
• The instrument cluster may not display the correct outside temperature
• The overhead console may not display the correct outside temperature

How Serious is the P0070 Code?

The P0070 code is not a very serious problem, but it should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid any potential damage to your engine or other components. If you ignore this code for too long, you may experience poor fuel economy, increased emissions, or reduced performance.

How Common is the P0070 Code?

The P0070 code is not a very common code, but it can occur in any vehicle that has an ambient air temperature sensor. Some of the vehicles that are more prone to this code are certain models of Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Jeep, Mazda, Mitsubishi, and Volkswagen.

How to Prevent the P0070 Code?

To prevent the P0070 code from occurring in your vehicle, you should:

• Regularly inspect and maintain your ambient air temperature sensor and its wiring
• Avoid driving through deep water or mud that may damage or clog your sensor
• Keep your grille and bumper clean and free of debris that may block your sensor
• Use only quality replacement parts that are compatible with your vehicle

Conclusion

The P0070 code is a generic code that indicates a problem with the ambient air temperature sensor or its circuit. This sensor measures the outside air temperature and sends a signal to the ECM or PCM, which uses it to adjust the fuel injection, ignition timing, and air conditioning system. The ambient air temperature sensor also displays the outside temperature on the instrument cluster or overhead console. The P0070 code can be caused by various factors, such as a faulty sensor, a damaged wiring or connector, a voltage or ground problem, a road debris or object hitting the sensor, or a failed ECM or PCM. To diagnose and fix this code, you will need a scan tool, a multimeter, and a wiring diagram for your vehicle. You may need to replace the sensor, repair or replace any faulty wiring or connectors, repair any open or short circuits, or replace the ECM or PCM. The P0070 code may not affect your drivability, but it may affect your air conditioning system and your outside temperature display. It may also cause poor fuel economy, increased emissions, or reduced performance. Therefore, you should address this code as soon as possible to avoid any further damage to your engine or other components.

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