Outside temperature incorrect on SID

[nordwulf]

My SID displays the outside temperature about 20 - 30 F degrees too high. Anyone had this issue before? My first guess is a faulty sensor but perhaps may be something else. I recently disconnected the SID when replacing the dash panel but that doesn't seem to be related to this problem.

[Dave T]

I never had this problem. Too bad you don't have a spare sensor to replace and see if it solves the problem. I don't know the definitive answer, but I might try some easy solutions first.

1. Disconnect the battery for a few minutes.
2. See if you can inspect the sensor under the bumper to see if there is obvious physical damage.
3. You could connect and reconnect the SID but that would be a lot of work with the dash panel.
4. Try to see if the temperature is off by a set amount or if there is a linear relationship between the actual temperature and temperature reading. This is best accomplished by having 3 readings, if possible, spread apart (like 40 F, 50 F, and 60 F). Also see if there are any other problems with the SID.

[nordwulf]

I already tried to reconnect the SID but that didn't make any difference. It's easy to pop out the SID in the 9-5.

The sensor is about $25 so not a huge cost to replace. It is easy to inspect and/or replace so I'll first check it out. On previous 9-5, I have seen wiring exposed for this sensor so that may be a problem as well.

[Burnsside42]

I've had this issue before in a 2007 9-5. I replaced the sensor, connector, cluster and cleaned and checked all sorts of things. Recalibrated and programmed my ass off. I think I finally got it to work within reason for the owner. His would read -40 at random and would read about 20* off most of the time initially. Only time I had a problem with a outside temp sensor. Owner was the previous owner of Clews & Strawbidges so he was easy to deal with and he had CPO at the time.

[nordwulf]

I replaced the sensor and that fixed the problem. Pretty expensive ($25.05) for such a tiny part that is used on many GM vehicles. Perhaps a few $ to manufacture? But at least it was easy and quick to change. And it came in a Saab Automobile Parts AB bag, made in Czech Republic so that's at least worth $10.

I think it was throwing off my ACC as well. Thanks for the advice!

[Gonzo 55]

I think I have a problem with my sensor too. My SID shows _ _ _ F for the temperature. Where is the sensor located? I'll check the wiring before I replace the sensor. I also have heating/air conditioning issues and I'm not sure how this sensor could possibly tie into them. I'll post that problem in a different thread.

[nordwulf]

You should be able to get to it from underneath the car without removing the splash guard but I found it easier to remove when I replaced my sensor. When you see no temperature display (_ _ _ F), it usually means there is no signal from the sensor at all. Could be a faulty sensor but more likely a wiring problem.

[Gonzo 55]

Thanks Wulf for the quick response. I usually go for easier myself. I'll check when I get off work today and if it's not a wiring issue I'll order a new sensor.

[Finding41]

I didn't have any reading from my sensor either. When checking under there today I found a broken wire. Soldered it back together and it works fine now!

[Tor KH]

Soldered mine last night after the power washer at the local car wash had loosened it.