[sfmc-99CAT]

99 Catera 96K miles, owned almost 2yrs.

I’ve visited the forum often (& the UK Omega forum), first post.

My Catera is missing it’s Outside Temp Sensor. When I picked up the car it’s Temp gauge always read 32degrees F regardless of season, then just F. Didn’t care much about it as where I live never gets hot and only ever needed bi-level warmth and defrost. Now I want cold AC for destination trips.

The Blue & B/W wires are severed from the sensor, and sensor not to be found. Trying to find its original location has been a headache, whether it was originally behind the grill, along the inside of the bumper/body panel, or approximate to the drivers (left) side fog lamp/horn is still a mystery. Fact is the sensor and it’s connector plug are gone.

My question:
1. Is the Outside Temp Sensor a necessary component to blow cold air?
2. Can the AC system be set to below 60degrees F (50 or 55)?

Yes, my AC blows warm at 60F.
Although the pulley spins I cannot tell if/when the AC compressor clutch is engaging, nor have I tested the system pressure for refrigerant. I have the Factory Service Manual and it reads like instructions to build a nuclear reactor, I tried reading it with glasses on and every page became singular bold print “Spend Money” “Take it to a Shop”

I really just want to know if the Outside Temp Sensor needs to be addressed before tackling the mechanical portion of the AC system. Thanks.

 

[globuslive]

1. Is the Outside Temp Sensor a necessary component to blow cold air?
It might, so when too cold there is no reason to engage the clutch. But if your clutch is engaged, it SHOULD cold the system. So check the Freon pressure first. It's essential thing to ac system, no matter what you trying to do with it.

2. Can the AC system be set to below 60degrees F (50 or 55)?
No. There is no reason to see 55. At 60F with properly working system you will be alright, since it doesn't stop at 60 anyway. It works on 100 its capability when set on 60.

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[sfmc-99CAT]

Thanks for the input.
Does anyone have an actual picture of where this particular sensor is on the car (97-99). A google search has been more intent on selling me the part or producing a generic microfiche image from other vehicles. Thanks again.

 

[globuslive]

Outside temp sensor is on the bumper cover. There is grille on the bottom of bumper, and it sits somewhere in the middle of it. You have to drop bumper cover to get to it. Or you might loose bottom portion, and get to it, I would try it first. It also might be harness issue. Harness is on the drivers side. It connects all electrics on the bumper, fog lights and this sensor. It's not hard to remove bumper, there are no hidden surprises whatever hardware you see, just take it off. There are 3 screws on the bottom, on the sides some, where inner liner is, mine (2000 and 2001) have one clip on every headlight, that holds headlight plastic cover which is under headlight. I can't remember if 1997-99 had it.

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[CSIMME01]

Here is the location information.