AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P0072 Chevrolet

P0072 Chevrolet Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the ambient air temperature sensor with a low reference circuit and signal circuit. 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 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 Chevrolet indicates Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage.
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: 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.

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Code Popularity 876

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 16, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0072 Chevrolet Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the ambient air temperature sensor with a low reference circuit and signal circuit. The ECM monitors the voltage drop across the sensor, which is inversely proportional to temperature. When the ambient air temperature is cold, the resistance of the sensor is high. When the ambient air temperature is warm, the resistance of the sensors is low. The engine control module converts the voltage value to a temperature value and sends the value to the Display Module via serial data. The Display Module displays the temperature. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor signal is more than 88°C (190°F).

OBDII Code P0072 Chevrolet - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0072 Chevrolet Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0072 Chevrolet?

Faulty Ambient Air Temperature Sensor
Ambient Air Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
Ambient Air Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0072 Chevrolet?

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 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0072 Chevrolet code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0072 Chevrolet code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Chevrolet Models

P0072 2014 Chevrolet Silverado — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage
P0072 2015 Chevrolet Silverado — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage
P0072 2016 Chevrolet Silverado — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage
P0072 2017 Chevrolet Silverado — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage
P0072 2018 Chevrolet Silverado — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage

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 P0072 Chevrolet Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0072 in a Chevrolet related to the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage?

The common symptoms include inaccurate temperature readings on the dashboard, issues with the vehicle's climate control system, and potential decreases in fuel efficiency.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0072 in a Chevrolet indicating Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage?

Some common causes of this code include a faulty ambient air temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, or a malfunction in the sensor's internal circuitry.

3. How can I diagnose the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage issue triggering OBDII code P0072 in my Chevrolet?

You can diagnose this issue by visually inspecting the sensor and its wiring for any visible damage, using a multimeter to test the sensor's resistance, and checking for proper voltage supply to the sensor with a diagnostic tool.

4. Can a faulty Ambient Air Temperature Sensor impact the performance of my Chevrolet if OBDII code P0072 is triggered?

Yes, a faulty ambient air temperature sensor can affect the engine's performance, fuel efficiency, and the operation of the vehicle's climate control system due to incorrect temperature readings being sent to the engine control module.

5. What are some repair tips for fixing the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage issue associated with OBDII code P0072 in a Chevrolet?

Repair tips include replacing the ambient air temperature sensor if it is faulty, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, and ensuring proper connections and voltage supply to the sensor.

6. Is it safe to continue driving my Chevrolet with OBDII code P0072 triggered by the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage issue?

It is generally safe to drive the vehicle with this code triggered, but it is recommended to address the underlying issue promptly to prevent potential performance issues and ensure accurate temperature readings.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage problem causing OBDII code P0072 in a Chevrolet?

The cost of repairing this issue can vary depending on the extent of the problem, but it typically ranges from $100 to $300, including the cost of parts and labor.

8. Can I reset OBDII code P0072 related to the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage in my Chevrolet without fixing the underlying issue?

Resetting the code without addressing the underlying problem will only temporarily clear the error code. The issue will likely resurface if the root cause, such as a faulty sensor or wiring, is not fixed.

9. How long does it take to repair the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage issue triggering OBDII code P0072 in a Chevrolet?

The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the complexity of the repair. In general, it may take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete the repair.

10. Are there any DIY solutions for fixing the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage issue associated with OBDII code P0072 in a Chevrolet?

While some simple tasks like checking and cleaning sensor connectors can be done by DIY enthusiasts, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for accurate diagnosis and proper repair of this issue.