AutoCodes – Pontiac – P0533 Pontiac

P0533 Pontiac Code - A/C Refrigerant Pressure Sensor Circuit High Input

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the high side refrigerant pressure through the A/C Refrigerant Pressure Sensor. Common causes include A/C system low or overcharged with refrigerant, Cooling fans are inoperative, Faulty A/C Refrigerant Pressure Sensor. 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: P0533 Pontiac indicates A/C Refrigerant Pressure Sensor Circuit High Input.
Common causes: Common causes include A/C system low or overcharged with refrigerant, Cooling fans are inoperative, Faulty A/C Refrigerant Pressure Sensor.
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.

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Code Popularity 2,679

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Low (Monitor) (1 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 02, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0533 Pontiac Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the high side refrigerant pressure through the A/C Refrigerant Pressure Sensor. The ECM supplies a 5 V reference and a low reference to the sensor. Changes in the A/C refrigerant pressure cause the sensor signal to the ECM to vary. When the pressure is high, the signal voltage is high. When the pressure is low, the signal voltage is low. The ECM may use this information to turn the cooling fans on as well as to monitor clutch engagement. The HVAC module will receive the A/C refrigerant pressure information from the ECM via serial data. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects that the A/C pressure is more than 428 psi (4.92 V).

OBDII Code P0533 Pontiac - A/C Refrigerant Pressure Sensor Circuit High Input - AutoCodes.com — P0533 Pontiac Code - A/C Refrigerant Pressure Sensor Circuit High Input

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0533 Pontiac?

A/C system low or overcharged with refrigerant
Cooling fans are inoperative
Faulty A/C Refrigerant Pressure Sensor
A/C Refrigerant Pressure Sensor circuit open or shorted
A/C Refrigerant Pressure Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0533 Pontiac?

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 P0533 Pontiac 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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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 P0533 Pontiac Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0533 mean on a Pontiac?

P0533 indicates that the A/C Refrigerant Pressure Sensor Circuit is showing a high input signal, which could mean excessive pressure or an electrical issue with the sensor.

2. What are common symptoms of code P0533 in a Pontiac?

Symptoms include the A/C system not functioning properly, intermittent cooling, or the A/C compressor not engaging.

3. What causes the P0533 code on a Pontiac?

Common causes include a faulty refrigerant pressure sensor, wiring issues like shorts or opens, excessive refrigerant pressure, or an overcharged A/C system.

4. Can I still drive my Pontiac with code P0533?

Yes, you can drive with this code, but your A/C system may not work correctly, and prolonged issues could lead to further damage.

5. How do you diagnose the P0533 code on a Pontiac?

Start by checking the refrigerant pressure sensor and its wiring for damage, then inspect the actual refrigerant pressure using a gauge to ensure it’s within normal limits.

6. How do I fix the P0533 code on a Pontiac?

Repairs may include replacing the refrigerant pressure sensor, repairing damaged wiring, or properly recharging or evacuating the A/C system.

7. Can an overcharged A/C system cause the P0533 code?

Yes, excessive refrigerant pressure from overcharging the system can trigger the P0533 code.

8. How much does it cost to repair a P0533 code on a Pontiac?

Costs can vary, but replacing the refrigerant pressure sensor typically costs between $100 and $300, depending on parts and labor.

9. Can a faulty refrigerant pressure sensor damage the A/C system?

Yes, if the sensor fails to regulate pressure correctly, it can prevent the A/C compressor from operating or cause system damage due to excessive pressure.

10. Is P0533 a serious code for a Pontiac?

While not critical for driving, it should be addressed promptly to restore proper A/C function and prevent potential damage to the system.