AutoCodes – Generic – B0333

B0333 Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open

Quick Answer

The ambient air temperature sensor allows the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module to monitor the temperature of the air surrounding the front of the vehicle. Common causes include Faulty Ambient Air Temperature Sensor, Ambient Air Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Ambient Air Temperature 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: B0333 indicates Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Ambient Air Temperature Sensor, Ambient Air Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Ambient Air Temperature 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.

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Code Popularity 1,870

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Low (Monitor) (1 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 11, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0333 Description

The ambient air temperature sensor allows the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module to monitor the temperature of the air surrounding the front of the vehicle. The inside air temperature sensor allows the HVAC control module to monitor the temperature of the air inside the passenger compartment. The module applies 5 volts to internal input resistors that are connected to the signal circuits of the air temperature sensors. The module provides ground to the air temperature sensors through the low reference circuits. The HVAC control module monitors the voltage drops across the air temperature sensors and uses the inputs for automatic control calculations. The HVAC control module also uses the ambient air temperature input to calculate the value of the ambient air temperature display. When the air temperatures are cold, the resistances of the sensors are high and the voltage signals are high. When the air temperatures are hot, the resistances of the sensors are low and the voltage signals are low.

OBDII Code B0333 - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open - AutoCodes.com — B0333 Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0333?

Faulty Ambient Air Temperature Sensor
Ambient Air Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
Ambient Air Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Module

How to Fix the DTC B0333?

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.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B0333 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.

Need more information about the B0333 code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0333 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0333 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

B0333 Buick — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open
B0333 Cadillac — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open
B0333 Chevrolet — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open
B0333 GMC — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B0333 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0333 (Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open)?

- Common symptoms include inaccurate temperature readings on the vehicle's display, issues with the HVAC system, and potential impact on the engine's performance.

2. What causes the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open error code (B0333) to trigger?

- The code is triggered when the ambient air temperature sensor fails to provide a valid signal to the vehicle's computer, often due to a broken or disconnected sensor wire.

3. How can I diagnose the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open issue (B0333) in my vehicle?

- Diagnose the problem by visually inspecting the sensor and its wiring for any damage, testing the sensor's resistance using a multimeter, and checking for loose connections.

4. Is it safe to drive with the OBDII code B0333 (Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open) active?

- While the issue may not affect the vehicle's drivability, it is recommended to address the problem promptly to ensure accurate temperature readings and prevent potential impact on other systems.

5. Can I repair the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open problem (B0333) myself?

- Depending on your experience and tools, you may be able to repair the issue by replacing the ambient air temperature sensor or repairing the damaged wiring. However, professional assistance is recommended if you are unsure.

6. What are the possible solutions for fixing the OBDII code B0333 (Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open)?

- Possible solutions include replacing the ambient air temperature sensor, repairing damaged wiring, resetting the fault code, and ensuring proper connection of the sensor.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open issue (B0333)?

- The cost of repairing the issue can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, the labor rates of the repair shop, and whether you choose to replace the sensor yourself or have it done professionally.

8. Will resetting the OBDII code B0333 (Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Open) make the problem go away permanently?

- Resetting the fault code may temporarily clear the error, but if the underlying issue with the ambient air temperature sensor or wiring is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.

9. Can a faulty Ambient Air Temperature Sensor (B0333) affect my vehicle's fuel efficiency?

- While the impact may be minimal, a faulty ambient air temperature sensor can potentially affect the engine's fuel mixture, leading to decreased fuel efficiency over time.

10. Is the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor the same as the Intake Air Temperature Sensor?

- No, the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor measures the outside air temperature, while the Intake Air Temperature Sensor measures the temperature of the air entering the engine.