Outside Temperature

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Since the ambient temperature sensor is in close proximity to the radiator, it can pick up engine heat giving a false "high" outside air temperature reading - known as "Heat Soak". In order to display a more correct outside temperature, the overhead console will not increase the displayed temperature until it detects movement in the compass over a two-minute period, to insure that there is adequate airflow over the sensor. "Movement over a two minute period" is best understood as once in the first minute, then some more detected movement in the second minute.

If the display shows an open circuit OC (or -49°F (-45°C) then there is an OPEN CIRCUIT or a missing sensor and the condition must be corrected. Keep in mind that after a repair is made, the vehicle may need to be driven to update the temperature for the reasons described above. Even if the engine is cool, it will not increase from -49°F without detecting movement.