AutoCodes – Buick – P0073 Buick

P0073 Buick Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High 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: P0073 Buick indicates Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High 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 821

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 P0073 Buick 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 less than -40°C (-40°F).

OBDII Code P0073 Buick - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0073 Buick Code - Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0073 Buick?

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 Buick?

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 Buick 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 P0073 Buick code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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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 Buick Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0073 in a Buick related to the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage?

The common symptoms include incorrect temperature readings on the vehicle's display, issues with the climate control system, and potential impact on fuel efficiency.

2. What are the possible causes of the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage code (P0073) in a Buick?

Possible causes can include a faulty ambient air temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, or issues with the sensor's power supply.

3. How can a driver diagnose the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage issue (P0073) in their Buick?

Drivers can use an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific trouble code, visually inspect the sensor and its wiring for any visible damage, and test the sensor's resistance to determine its functionality.

4. Can driving with the OBDII code P0073 Buick Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage issue cause any long-term damage?

Continued driving with this issue may not cause immediate harm to the vehicle but could lead to inaccuracies in temperature readings and affect the performance of the climate control system.

5. Are there any simple repair tips for addressing the P0073 code related to the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor in a Buick?

Simple repair tips can include checking and cleaning the sensor connections, replacing the ambient air temperature sensor if necessary, and ensuring the wiring is properly connected and free of damage.

6. Will resetting the OBDII code P0073 in a Buick resolve the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage issue?

Resetting the code may temporarily clear the error message, but it will not solve the underlying problem causing the high voltage issue with the ambient air temperature sensor.

7. How critical is it to address the OBDII code P0073 Buick Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage problem promptly?

While the issue may not directly impact the vehicle's drivability, addressing it promptly is recommended to ensure accurate temperature readings and proper functioning of the climate control system.

8. Can extreme weather conditions affect the performance of the ambient air temperature sensor, leading to the P0073 code in a Buick?

Yes, extreme heat or cold can impact the sensor's readings and potentially trigger the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage code in a Buick.

9. Are there specific Buick models that are more prone to experiencing the OBDII code P0073 related to the Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage?

While any Buick model with an ambient air temperature sensor can potentially experience this issue, certain models may have a higher likelihood due to variations in sensor placement and wiring.

10. Should a driver seek professional help for diagnosing and repairing the OBDII code P0073 Buick Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Voltage problem?

If a driver is unsure about diagnosing or repairing the issue themselves, seeking professional help from a mechanic or dealership specializing in Buick vehicles is recommended to ensure proper resolution of the problem.