Ambient temp sensor periodically shows wrong temperature.

[kjartansen]

I have a X3 F25 2013 model where the outside temp sensor shows different wrong outside temperatures from time to time. It´s different values from time to time when it shows wrong temperature. Could be as simple as a faulty sensor, or should it then be showing a fixed minus degree temperature (with short circuit, loose cable or similar)?

Anyone with the same kind of issues?

[MarcoZandrini]

Most likely it’s a bad connection at the sensor. The sensor is a thermistor, a resistor that varies in resistance as the temperature varies. That is, as its temperature increases it’s resistance decreases. Check the connectors for corrosion and loose pins.

[kjartansen]

Thanks a lot, checking!

[kjartansen]

BMW service installed new sensor and new connector, but I still have the same problem.. Any tips?

[MarcoZandrini]

Has the car ever suffered damage to the front end? Are you faving an other electrical or electronic problems?

[kjartansen]

No damage on the car, and no other electronic problems..

Btw, a month ago the car thought both left side doors where open so it was impossible to drive. But that issue never came back..

[MarcoZandrini]

Hmmmm, how old is the battery? Are you having any other electrical issues. Modern cars are rolling computers. Whacky voltages cause whacky issues.

I’m betting there’s a bad connection somewhere between the sensor connector and the electronix. Also, how hard is it to inspect the repair work? We all make mistakes. Many the tech didn’t do a perfect job.

[kjartansen]

Battery is 5 years. Where is the other end of the temp sensor wiring connected?