P0072 2017 Ford F150 Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit 'A' Low
Quick Answer
The Ambient Air Temperature (AAT) Sensor is a thermistor device in which resistance changes with temperature. Common causes include Faulty Ambient Air Temperature (AAT) Sensor, Ambient Air Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Ambient Air Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
- What it means
- P0072 2017 Ford F150 indicates Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit 'A' Low.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Ambient Air Temperature (AAT) Sensor, Ambient Air Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Ambient Air Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
- Severity
- High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
- Can I drive?
- Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Code P0072 2017 Ford F150 Description
Thermistor type sensors are considered passive sensors. A passive sensor is connected to a voltage divider network so that varying the resistance of the passive sensor causes a variation in total current flow. Voltage that is dropped across a fixed resistor in series with the sensor resistor determines the voltage signal at the PCM. This voltage signal is equal to the reference voltage minus the voltage drop across the fixed resistor.
The AAT sensor provides ambient air temperature information to the PCM for the temperature sensor correlation tests. The PCM also communicates the AAT sensor information to all other modules on the controller area network (CAN).
This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets when the ambient air temperature (AAT) sensor signal is less than the self-test minimum.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0072 2017 Ford F150?
- Faulty Ambient Air Temperature (AAT) Sensor
- Ambient Air Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
- Ambient Air Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC P0072 2017 Ford F150?
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 P0072 2017 Ford F150 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 P0072 2017 Ford F150 code?
Need more information on how to fix the P0072 2017 Ford F150 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the P0072 2017 Ford F150 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Frequently Asked Questions about P0072 2017 Ford F150 Code
1. What does the OBDII code P0072 mean on a 2017 Ford F150?
P0072 indicates that the Ambient Air Temperature (AAT) sensor circuit is reading a voltage that is lower than the expected range, suggesting a potential issue with the sensor or its wiring.
2. What are the symptoms of a P0072 code on a 2017 Ford F150?
Common symptoms include inaccurate outside temperature readings, potential issues with climate control functionality, and the check engine light turning on.
3. What causes the P0072 code to appear on a 2017 Ford F150?
Possible causes include a faulty ambient air temperature sensor, damaged or corroded wiring, a poor electrical connection, or issues with the vehicle's PCM (Powertrain Control Module).
4. Can a bad ambient air temperature sensor affect my vehicle's performance?
While it may not directly impact engine performance, it can affect systems like climate control, automatic defrost, or even fuel efficiency in vehicles that use the sensor data for engine management.
5. How do I diagnose the P0072 code on a 2017 Ford F150?
Start by inspecting the ambient air temperature sensor and its wiring for damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to test the sensor's resistance and check for proper voltage in the circuit.
6. Where is the ambient air temperature sensor located on a 2017 Ford F150?
The sensor is typically located near the front grille or bumper area, where it can measure outside air temperature without engine heat interference.
7. Can I still drive my 2017 Ford F150 with a P0072 code?
Yes, you can drive the vehicle, but features like climate control and fuel efficiency may be affected. It's best to address the issue promptly to avoid further complications.
8. How do I fix the P0072 code on my 2017 Ford F150?
Repairs may include replacing the ambient air temperature sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connections, or reprogramming the PCM if necessary.
9. How much does it cost to fix a P0072 code on a 2017 Ford F150?
The cost can vary depending on the exact issue. Replacing the ambient air temperature sensor typically costs between $50 and $150, while wiring repairs or PCM reprogramming may add to the expense.
10. Can a P0072 code clear itself on a 2017 Ford F150?
The code will not clear itself unless the underlying issue is resolved. After repairs, the code can be cleared using an OBDII scanner.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P0072 2017 Ford F150 OBDII Code
Code P0072 2017 Ford F150 comments
No comments found for this page.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.
