AutoCodes – Buick – B0333 Buick

B0333 Buick 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 Buick 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 929

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0333 Buick?

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 Buick?

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 Buick 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 Buick code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

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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 Buick Code

1. What does the OBDII code B0333 mean on a Buick?

The code B0333 indicates an issue with the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor circuit, typically an open or disconnected sensor.

2. What are the common symptoms of the B0333 code in a Buick?

Symptoms may include an incorrect ambient temperature reading on the dashboard, failure of the HVAC system to adjust properly, or the climate control system operating erratically.

3. What causes the B0333 code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty ambient air temperature sensor, damaged or corroded wiring, a disconnected sensor connector, or an issue with the vehicle's control module.

4. Can I drive my Buick with the B0333 code?

Yes, but you may experience inconvenience with HVAC system performance or inaccurate temperature readings. It's best to address the issue promptly to prevent further complications.

5. How do I fix the B0333 code on my Buick?

Inspect the ambient air temperature sensor and its wiring for damage or disconnection. Replace the sensor if faulty or repair the wiring if necessary.

6. Where is the ambient air temperature sensor located on a Buick?

The sensor is usually located near the front bumper or grille area, where it can measure external air temperature accurately.

7. How do I test the ambient air temperature sensor?

Use a multimeter to check the sensor's resistance. Compare the readings to the manufacturer's specifications to determine if the sensor is functioning properly.

8. Could a faulty control module cause the B0333 code?

While less common, a malfunctioning control module or software issue could be a cause. This should only be investigated after ruling out sensor and wiring problems.

9. How much does it cost to fix the B0333 code on a Buick?

Repair costs vary, but replacing the ambient air temperature sensor typically costs between $50 and $150, including parts and labor.

10. Can a dirty sensor cause the B0333 code?

A dirty or obstructed sensor is unlikely to cause this code, but itâ€™s a good idea to clean the sensor while inspecting it to ensure accurate readings.