P0072 Ford 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 Ford 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 Ford 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 Ford?
- 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 Ford?
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 Ford 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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Information for Specific Ford Models
- P0072 2015 Ford F150 — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit 'A' Low
- P0072 2016 Ford F150 — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit 'A' Low
- P0072 2017 Ford F150 — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit 'A' Low
- P0072 2018 Ford F150 — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit 'A' Low
- P0072 2019 Ford F150 — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit 'A' Low
- P0072 2020 Ford F150 — Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit 'A' Low
Frequently Asked Questions about P0072 Ford Code
1. What does the P0072 code mean on a Ford?
P0072 indicates that the Ambient Air Temperature (AAT) Sensor Circuit 'A' is reading a value that is lower than the expected range, suggesting a potential fault in the circuit or sensor.
2. What are the symptoms of a P0072 code?
Symptoms may include incorrect ambient temperature readings on the dashboard, failed automatic climate control functions, and potential impact on engine performance or fuel efficiency.
3. What causes the P0072 code to appear?
Common causes include a faulty ambient air temperature sensor, damaged or corroded wiring, poor electrical connections, or a malfunctioning PCM (Powertrain Control Module).
4. Can I drive my Ford with a P0072 code?
Yes, you can drive with a P0072 code, but it may affect climate control performance and, in some cases, engine efficiency. It is best to diagnose and fix the issue promptly.
5. How do I fix the P0072 code on my Ford?
Start by inspecting the AAT sensor and its wiring for damage or corrosion. Replace the sensor if necessary. Ensure all connections are secure and repair any damaged wiring. If the problem persists, the PCM may need to be inspected.
6. Where is the Ambient Air Temperature sensor located in my Ford?
The ambient air temperature sensor is typically located near the front grille or behind the front bumper, where it can measure outside air temperature accurately.
7. How do I test the ambient air temperature sensor?
You can test the sensor using a multimeter to measure its resistance. Compare the readings to the manufacturer's temperature-resistance specifications to determine if the sensor is functioning properly.
8. Will clearing the P0072 code fix the problem?
Clearing the code may temporarily remove it from the system, but if the underlying issue is not resolved, the code will likely return.
9. Can a P0072 code affect my Ford’s fuel economy?
In some cases, yes. If the PCM relies on the ambient air temperature sensor for engine management, incorrect readings could lead to suboptimal air-fuel mixture adjustments, affecting fuel economy.
10. How much does it cost to fix a P0072 code?
Repair costs vary depending on the issue. Replacing an ambient air temperature sensor may cost $50 to $200, while fixing wiring or PCM issues could be more expensive.
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