AutoCodes – Pontiac – B0159 Pontiac

B0159 Pontiac Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

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: B0159 Pontiac indicates Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance.
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 1,102

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 10, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code B0159 Pontiac 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 assembly 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 B0159 Pontiac - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com — B0159 Pontiac Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0159 Pontiac?

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 B0159 Pontiac?

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 B0159 Pontiac 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 B0159 Pontiac 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 B0159 Pontiac Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code B0159 in a Pontiac related to the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance issue?

- Common symptoms include inaccurate temperature readings on the dashboard, incorrect climate control system operation, and potential impact on fuel efficiency.

2. What are the typical causes of the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance issue (OBDII code B0159) in a Pontiac?

- The issue may be caused by a faulty ambient air temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or a malfunctioning climate control module.

3. How can I diagnose the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance issue (OBDII code B0159) in my Pontiac?

- Diagnosis involves checking the ambient air temperature sensor for proper operation, inspecting the wiring and connectors for any damage, and using a scan tool to retrieve the specific trouble code.

4. Can I drive my Pontiac with the OBDII code B0159 related to the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance problem?

- It is generally safe to drive the vehicle with this code, but you may experience issues with climate control and potentially reduced fuel efficiency until the problem is resolved.

5. How can I repair the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance issue (OBDII code B0159) in my Pontiac?

- The repair process usually involves replacing the ambient air temperature sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and clearing the trouble code using a scan tool.

6. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code B0159 related to the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance issue in my Pontiac without fixing the problem?

- While you can clear the code temporarily with a scan tool, it is recommended to address the underlying issue to prevent further complications or potential safety concerns.

7. What tools or equipment may be needed to repair the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance issue (OBDII code B0159) in a Pontiac?

- Common tools include a scan tool for code retrieval and clearing, a multimeter for testing electrical connections, and replacement parts such as the ambient air temperature sensor.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance issue (OBDII code B0159) in a Pontiac?

- The cost can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from $50 to $200 for parts and labor, excluding diagnostic fees.

9. Are there any preventive maintenance measures I can take to avoid encountering the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance issue (OBDII code B0159) in my Pontiac?

- Regular inspection of the ambient air temperature sensor, checking for any signs of wiring damage, and addressing climate control system issues promptly can help prevent this problem.

10. Can the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance issue (OBDII code B0159) in a Pontiac cause any long-term damage if left unresolved?

- While the issue may not cause immediate harm, prolonged driving with inaccurate temperature readings or climate control system malfunctions could lead to discomfort and potential impact on fuel efficiency. Addressing the problem promptly is recommended.