B0163:05 Code - Passenger Compartment Temperature Sensor Circuit Short to Battery or Open
Quick Answer
The ambient light/sunload sensor integrates the sunload sensor and passenger compartment temperature sensor into a single assembly. Common causes include Faulty Ambient Light/Sunload Sensor, Ambient Light/Sunload Sensor harness is open or shorted, Ambient Light/Sunload Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical. The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.
- What it means
- B0163:05 indicates Passenger Compartment Temperature Sensor Circuit Short to Battery or Open.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Ambient Light/Sunload Sensor, Ambient Light/Sunload Sensor harness is open or shorted, Ambient Light/Sunload Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
- Severity
- Low - monitor the vehicle and repair when practical.
- Can I drive?
- The vehicle can usually be driven if no severe symptoms are present, but symptoms should be checked before extended driving.
Code B0163:05 Description
The solar sensor is connected to a low reference and a 5 V biased (pull-up) signal circuit voltage from the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module. As the sunload increases, the sensor signal voltage decreases. The signal varies between 0.1 - 4.9 V and is provided to the HVAC control module.
The passenger compartment temperature sensor is a negative temperature coefficient thermistor. A signal and low reference circuit enable the sensor to operate. As the air temperature increases, the sensor resistance decreases. The sensor signal varies between 0 - 5 V.
Bright or high-intensity light causes the vehicle's interior temperature to increase. The HVAC system compensates for the increased temperature by diverting additional cool air into the vehicle.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the HVAC control module detects the sensor signal out of range. The signal voltage is greater than 4.9 V for more than 50 ms.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0163:05?
- Faulty Ambient Light/Sunload Sensor
- Ambient Light/Sunload Sensor harness is open or shorted
- Ambient Light/Sunload Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module
How to Fix the DTC B0163:05?
Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.
Code Tech Notes
B0163:05 Passenger Compartment Temperature Sensor Circuit Short to Battery or Open
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the B0163:05 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.
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Frequently Asked Questions about B0163:05 Code
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