AutoCodes – Saturn – B0160 Saturn

B0160 Saturn Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor High

Quick Answer

The Driver Information Center (DIC) applies 5 volts to the ambient air temperature sensor. 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: B0160 Saturn indicates Ambient Air Temperature Sensor High.
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 969

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 B0160 Saturn Description

The Driver Information Center (DIC) applies 5 volts to the ambient air temperature sensor. The ambient air temperature sensor is a thermistor which varies in resistance as the temperature changes. As the resistance of the ambient air temperature sensor increases, the DIC senses a larger voltage drop across the sensor, indicating a lower temperature. As the resistance of the ambient air temperature sensor decreases, the DIC senses a smaller voltage drop across the sensor, indicating a higher temperature.

OBDII Code B0160 Saturn - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor High - AutoCodes.com — B0160 Saturn Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B0160 Saturn?

Faulty Ambient Air Temperature Sensor
Ambient Air Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
Ambient Air Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC B0160 Saturn?

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 B0160 Saturn 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 B0160 Saturn code?

Need more information on how to fix the B0160 Saturn code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the B0160 Saturn code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 B0160 Saturn Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code B0160 in a Saturn related to the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor High?

The common symptoms include incorrect temperature readings on the vehicle's display, erratic climate control system operation, and possible impact on the automatic transmission shifting behavior.

2. What causes the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor High code B0160 in a Saturn?

The code B0160 typically indicates a malfunction in the ambient air temperature sensor, which could be caused by a faulty sensor, wiring issues, or sensor placement problems.

3. How can I diagnose the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor High code B0160 in my Saturn?

Diagnosing the issue involves inspecting the ambient air temperature sensor and its wiring for any visible damage, testing the sensor's resistance, and checking for proper sensor placement and connections.

4. Can I drive my Saturn with the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor High code B0160?

While driving with the code may be possible, it is not recommended as it can affect the accuracy of the climate control system and potentially impact other vehicle functions.

5. How can I repair the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor High code B0160 in my Saturn?

Repairing the issue may involve replacing the ambient air temperature sensor, repairing any damaged wiring, ensuring proper sensor placement, and clearing the trouble code with an OBDII scanner.

6. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor High code B0160 in a Saturn?

If you have experience working on automotive electrical systems, you may be able to diagnose and repair the issue yourself. However, if you are unsure, it is best to consult a professional mechanic.

7. Will resetting the trouble codes fix the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor High code B0160 in my Saturn?

Resetting the trouble codes may temporarily clear the error code, but if the underlying issue with the ambient air temperature sensor is not resolved, the code is likely to reappear.

8. How do I prevent the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor High code B0160 from reoccurring in my Saturn?

To prevent the code from reoccurring, ensure the ambient air temperature sensor is functioning correctly, the wiring is in good condition, and the sensor is properly installed with no obstructions.

9. Can extreme weather conditions affect the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor High code B0160 in a Saturn?

Extreme weather conditions like high heat or freezing temperatures can potentially impact the ambient air temperature sensor readings, leading to the triggering of the B0160 trouble code.

10. Is the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor High code B0160 a serious issue in a Saturn?

While the issue may not directly affect the drivability of the vehicle, it can impact the accuracy of temperature readings and climate control operation, so it is recommended to address the problem promptly.