AutoCodes – Volkswagen – P0073 Volkswagen

P0073 Volkswagen Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input

Quick Answer

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored in the Engine Control Module (ECM) when a malfunction is detected with 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 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: P0073 Volkswagen indicates Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input.
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 25,309

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 Sep 19, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0073 Volkswagen Description

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored in the Engine Control Module (ECM) when a malfunction is detected with the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor. This component measures the outside air temperature. A plausibility check is carried out with the ambient air temperature sensor, intake air temperature sensor, and engine coolant temperature sensor.

OBDII Code P0073 Volkswagen - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input - AutoCodes.com — P0073 Volkswagen Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0073 Volkswagen?

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 P0073 Volkswagen?

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 P0073 Volkswagen 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.

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Need more information on how to fix the P0073 Volkswagen code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 P0073 Volkswagen Code

What does the OBDII code P0073 mean for my Volkswagen?

The OBDII code P0073 indicates that the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit has a high input signal, which means the vehicle's computer is detecting a temperature reading that is above the expected range.

What are the common symptoms of the P0073 code?

Common symptoms include incorrect temperature readings on the dashboard, potential issues with climate control, decreased fuel efficiency, and the check engine light illuminating.

What can cause the P0073 code to trigger?

Causes can include a faulty ambient air temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

How can I diagnose the P0073 code?

To diagnose the P0073 code, check the ambient air temperature sensor for proper operation, inspect the wiring and connectors for damage, and use a multimeter to test the voltage output of the sensor.

Can I drive my Volkswagen with the P0073 code?

While you can technically drive the vehicle, it is not advisable since the incorrect temperature reading can affect engine performance and fuel efficiency. It's best to address the issue promptly.

What are the typical repair steps for the P0073 code?

Repair steps typically involve inspecting and, if necessary, replacing the ambient air temperature sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, and resetting the ECM to clear the code.

Will clearing the code P0073 fix the problem?

Clearing the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but if the underlying issue is not resolved, the code will likely reappear after driving for a short period.

How much does it typically cost to repair the P0073 code?

The cost can vary widely depending on the specific issue, but replacing the ambient air temperature sensor usually ranges from $50 to $200, including parts and labor.

Is the ambient air temperature sensor easy to replace?

Yes, the ambient air temperature sensor is generally easy to replace and can often be done without special tools, but it may require some basic mechanical skills.