Ford F-150 (2014-2023) Ambient Air Temperature Sensor: A Comprehensive Guide
Wrong temperature on your dash or A/C not working? Your F-150's ambient air temperature sensor is the likely cause.
- First, confirm your F-150's year to know the sensor's location: 2014-2017 is behind the grille, while 2018-2023 is in the passenger mirror.
- A faulty sensor is a common cause for the A/C not working, as the truck's computer will disable the compressor if it receives an incorrect low-temperature reading.
- For 2018+ models, if you replace the passenger mirror, ensure the new part includes the temperature sensor to avoid a check engine light and A/C failure.
- After replacement, you may need to reset the system by driving over 20 mph for 5 minutes or performing a button-press sequence on the HVAC controls.
A Critical Year-Based Difference
Before buying a new ambient air temperature sensor, you must know your truck's year. Ford changed the sensor's location, which is the most common point of confusion for owners.
- 2014-2017 F-150: The sensor is located behind the front grille, usually near the center by the hood latch. It is a standalone part that is easy to access. 🎬 Watch: Step-by-step sensor replacement for 2014-2017 models.
- 2018-2023 F-150: Ford moved the sensor into the housing of the passenger-side mirror. It is a small probe that sticks out from the bottom of the mirror assembly.
Common Ordering Mistake
Owners of 2018 or newer F-150s often mistakenly buy and replace the sensor behind the grille, only to find the problem doesn't go away. For these later models, the issue is almost always with the sensor in the passenger mirror. A frequent problem occurs when a damaged mirror is replaced with a cheap aftermarket version that does not include the temperature sensor, leading to a check engine light and A/C failure.
Symptoms of a Failing Sensor
A bad AAT sensor will give you clear signs of a problem. Look for these symptoms:
- Incorrect Temperature Display: The temperature shown on your dash or SYNC screen is wrong, stuck on one number, or changes erratically.
- A/C Not Working: The air conditioning may blow warm air or not turn on at all. This happens because the truck's computer receives a false, low-temperature reading (like 35°F) and prevents the A/C compressor from engaging.
- Check Engine Light: A failed sensor will often trigger a check engine light. The most common trouble code is P0073 (Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High). 🎬 See why cheap sensors fail and how to fix code P0073.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
For a simple component like the AAT sensor, a quality aftermarket part offers great value. Brands like Dorman and Standard Ignition (SMP) produce reliable, direct-fit replacements.
The main concern is with cheap, unbranded parts, especially for 2018+ models. If you are replacing the entire passenger mirror, you MUST ensure the new assembly includes the ambient air temperature sensor. Buying a mirror without the sensor will guarantee a check engine light and A/C problems. Reputable aftermarket brands like Dorman are typically try-on tested to ensure proper fit and function.
Pro Tip: Aftermarket Brand Tiers
- Tier 1 (OEM Quality): Standard Ignition (SMP) is often considered a top-tier aftermarket supplier, manufacturing parts that meet or exceed OEM specifications.
- Tier 2 (Reliable Replacement): Dorman is a well-known brand that provides a wide range of direct-fit replacement parts that are a dependable and cost-effective solution.
- Avoid (Use Caution): Unbranded, deeply discounted mirror assemblies from online marketplaces often cut costs by omitting the temperature sensor, leading to more problems than they solve.
Cost of a New Ambient Air Temperature Sensor
| Part Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Sensor Only) | $26 - $43 |
| New Aftermarket (Sensor Only) | $13 - $40 |
| Shop Labor (Sensor Only) | $50 - $100 |
| New OEM Mirror Assembly (2018+) | $800 - $1900+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the ambient air temperature sensor on my F-150?
It depends on the year. For 2014-2017 models, it's behind the grille near the hood latch. For 2018-2023 models, it is located on the bottom of the passenger-side mirror.
Do I need to reset my truck after replacing the sensor?
Sometimes. The system may update on its own after driving at speeds over 20 mph for about five minutes. There is also a manual reset procedure: with the truck running, press the A/C and Recirculation buttons on the climate control panel at the same time, release them, and then press the A/C button again within two seconds.
Can a bad temperature sensor really make my A/C stop working?
Yes. This is a very common symptom. The automatic climate control system uses the sensor's reading to decide whether to run the A/C. If the sensor is faulty and tells the computer it's 30°F outside, the system will not engage the A/C compressor to prevent damage.
Why did my check engine light come on after I replaced my passenger mirror?
This is a frequent issue on 2018+ F-150s. You likely installed an aftermarket mirror that did not have an ambient air temperature sensor built into it. The truck's computer detected the missing sensor and triggered the check engine light (usually code P0073).
🎬 Watch this to fix check engine lights after a mirror install.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: AU5Z-12A647-B DY-1160 FC4Z-12A647-A DY-1345
The key specification is the location, which changed mid-generation. For 2014-2017 models, the sensor is in the grille. For 2018-2023 models, it is integrated into the passenger-side mirror assembly.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford F-150: