Outside temperature

[ktk3438]

I have a 1998 Grand Caravan with the overhead console that includes the outside temp & other information.

Lately all it shows for the temp is "0C", and it is stuck there. I tried to remover power to kind of reset it, but it did nothing.

I'm not sure it something has gotten on the temperature probe, or if the probe itself is bad. Either way I'd like to inspect it, but I cannot seem to figure out where it is. On my friend's BMW, it is in the lower part of the front bumper cover , right side. But I tried to look there on my van but, I just didn't see it, or I overlooked it.

Anyone know where I should look, or it problem might be caused by something else?


Thanks in advance!

[RIP]

The sensor on my 96 is behind the front bumper just to the passenger side of center. Look for a 1.5 inch long black plastic cyclinder and flange held on with one screw and has two wires leading to it.

How did you remove power? Try pulling the IOD fuse for 2/3 minutes in the fuse panel next to the battery. This resets the BCM. Disconnecting the battery does the same thing.

[ktk3438]

I pulled the fuse, but it was not for 2-3 minutes, it was only for 30 seconds, does that matter?

I think I'm going to pull to power for like 5 mins before I try anything else.

Did you have the same error (0C) on your display, and did you replace the probe to correct the problem?

Also, is it located close to the ground, or up towards the grill?

What is "IOD" and "BCM"?

Thanks!

[RickMN]

Here's the test procedure for an OC message:

Disconnect ambient temp sensor located behind front bumper (right center). Connect jumper wire between connector terminals. Turn ignition on. If display now reads SC, replace temp sensor. In not, proceed to next step.

With ignition off, disconnect jumper wire. Disconnect the compass/temp module connector. Connect jumper wires between ground and each terminal of the the ambient temp sensor harness connector. Measure resistance at terminal 5 (violet/light green) on compass module harness connector. If resistance is less than 5 ohms, go to next step. If 5 or less, repair an open in violet/light green wire between compass module and ambient temp sensor.

With jumper wires still connected, measure resistance at terminal 2 (blk/lt blue) wire on compass module connector. If resistance is less than 5 ohms, replace compass module. If resistance is 5 ohms or greater, repair open in black/lt blue wire between compass module and ambient temp sensor.

[RIP]

RickMN - would that apply to a 93 T&C too? A guy on another forum has a dead display. Do you know how to do the self test?

[ktk3438]

Originally Posted by RickMN

Here's the test procedure for an OC message:

Disconnect ambient temp sensor located behind front bumper (right center). .

I can't seem to find it, do I need to take anything off in order to see it?

Anyway you could add a pic or something that might help me out?


Thanks

[ktk3438]

Still having trouble locating this probe, do I need to remove the bumper to see it?

Can I just reach up and feel it, or is this something that's tucked in somewhere and I need to do something else?

Thanks

[ktk3438]

OK, I found where it "USED TO" be. It was torn off from a previous accident, and part of the mount are there, and the wires. However, the plug was torn off as well, looks like it went together with the probe.

I'd like to try to find one at a bone yard, cuz the stealership wants $90.00 for the sensor & plug.

I've had no luck finding one locally, does anyone know of online used parts that might have it?

Thanks

[RIP]

Originally Posted by ktk3438

I'd like to try to find one at a bone yard, cuz the stealership wants $90.00 for the sensor & plug.Thanks

Wow, I needed one when I hit a parking space bumber 8-10 years ago. Payed $26 then. Didn't know inflation jumped 350%. Probably a dealer only item. Junk yard is your best bet.

[ktk3438]

Originally Posted by RIP

Wow, I needed one when I hit a parking space bumber 8-10 years ago. Payed $26 then. Didn't know inflation jumped 350%. Probably a dealer only item. Junk yard is your best bet.

Yeah dealer only, $35.00, plus another $35.00 for the connector, plus tax. I don't mind price of the sensor, but $35.00 for a connector? Friggin rip off for a plug.

[angus10]

I would do junk yard for that part. I bet the same sensor and plug are used on multiple vehicles, not exclusivly on a caravan.