At Pre-Delivery Inspection of a 2008 Impala, Grand Prix, LaCrosse or Allure, some technicians may note that the ambient temperature display is not accurate.
The ambient temperature display uses an algorithm that delays updating the temperature display unless certain conditions are met, such as driving the vehicle at a certain speed.
This is done to ensure that the ambient sensor does not detect engine heat while the vehicle is idling, which would result in an inaccurate ambient temperature reading.
Don't replace the ambient temperature sensor.
Ensure that the ambient temperature display has updated using the accompanying tables.
It is recommended that the vehicle be driven to update the ambient temperature display. However, if one of the methods is used to update the temperature instantly, be aware that if the engine is idling, the ambient temperature sensor may detect engine heat, resulting in an artificially high reading.
- Thanks to Chris Anderson
2008 Impala
Condition | Ambient Temperature Display |
When the HVAC module A/C and RECIRCULATION buttons are pressed simultaneously. | Updates temperature display instantly. |
At start up with the engine OFF more than 3 hours | Displays actual outside temperature |
At start up with the engine OFF less than 3 hours | Displays last stored temperature unless temperature has decreased. The temperature reading is always instantly updated if ambient air temperature has decreased. |
Vehicle moving above 10 mph (16 km/h) for 5 minutes | Updates temperature display at a slow filtered rate. |
Vehicle moving at 32 mph (51 km/h) or greater for 2.5 minutes | Updates temperature display rapidly. |
When the ambient air decreases. | Updates temperature display rapidly. |
2008 LaCrosse, Allure and Grand Prix
Condition | Ambient Temperature Display |
At start up with the engine OFF | Displays actual outside temperature |
At start up with the engine OFF | Displays last stored temperature |
Vehicle moving above 10 mph | Updates temperature display at a |
Vehicle moving at 32 mph (51 km/h) | Updates temperature display as |
When the sensor reading is less | Updates temperature display as |
When the Front Defrost, Rear | Updates temperature display instantly. |
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