P0536 Code - A/C Evaporator Temperature Circuit Range/Performance
Quick Answer
The A/C Evaporator Temperature (ACET) sensor contains a thermistor which receives a reference voltage from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Common causes include Faulty A/C Evaporator Temperature (ACET) Sensor, A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, A/C Evaporator 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
- P0536 indicates A/C Evaporator Temperature Circuit Range/Performance.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty A/C Evaporator Temperature (ACET) Sensor, A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, A/C Evaporator 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.
Code P0536 Description
The PCM maintains evaporator core temperature and prevents icing of the evaporator core, by disengaging the A/C compressor clutch (non-hybrid) or decreasing the electric A/C compressor speed (hybrid) when the evaporator A/C Evaporator Temperature sensor reading falls below acceptable levels, and by engaging the A/C compressor clutch (non-hybrid) or increasing the electric A/C compressor speed (hybrid) when the discharge air temperature rises above acceptable levels.
The A/C Evaporator Temperature sensor is located inside of the heater core and evaporator core housing in the air-stream leaving the evaporator core.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) indicates the A/C Evaporator Temperature sensor signal input is not to factory specifications.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0536?
- Faulty A/C Evaporator Temperature (ACET) Sensor
- A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
- A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
How to Fix the DTC P0536?
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 P0536 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 P0536 code?
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Need Help with the Code?
Get the P0536 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Information for Specific Makes
- P0536 Ford — A/C Evaporator Temperature Circuit Range/Performance
- P0536 Lincoln — A/C Evaporator Temperature Circuit Range/Performance
- P0536 Mercury — A/C Evaporator Temperature Circuit Range/Performance
Frequently Asked Questions about P0536 Code
1. What does OBDII code P0536 mean?
Code P0536 indicates an issue with the A/C evaporator temperature sensor circuit, specifically that its readings are outside the expected range or performance parameters.
2. What are the common symptoms of code P0536?
Symptoms may include the air conditioning not working properly, inconsistent cooling performance, or the A/C system shutting off unexpectedly.
3. What causes the P0536 code to trigger?
Possible causes include a faulty A/C evaporator temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning A/C control module, or refrigerant issues in the system.
4. How is the P0536 code diagnosed?
A technician will typically use a scan tool to check live data from the A/C evaporator sensor, inspect the sensor and its wiring for damage, and verify the refrigerant levels in the system.
5. Can I drive with a P0536 code?
Yes, you can generally drive with this code, but the A/C system may not function correctly, which could be uncomfortable in hot weather.
6. How do you fix the P0536 code?
Repairs may include replacing the A/C evaporator temperature sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or recharging the refrigerant if it’s low.
7. How much does it cost to fix the P0536 code?
The repair cost varies, but replacing the A/C evaporator temperature sensor typically ranges from $100 to $300, including parts and labor.
8. Can low refrigerant levels cause the P0536 code?
Yes, low refrigerant levels can impact the performance of the A/C system and potentially contribute to this code being triggered.
9. Will clearing the code fix the P0536 issue?
Clearing the code without addressing the root cause will not fix the problem, and the code is likely to reappear.
10. How can I prevent the P0536 code from recurring?
Regular maintenance of the A/C system, including checking refrigerant levels and inspecting wiring connections, can help prevent this code from recurring.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P0536 OBDII Code
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