Lincoln Navigator Ambient Air Temperature Sensor: A Guide for 2016-2023 Models
An incorrect temperature display or faulty automatic A/C on your Navigator could be a simple sensor fix.
- A bad sensor is the most common cause of an incorrect outside temperature display and erratic automatic climate control.
- This is a very simple and inexpensive DIY repair; check the connector for corrosion before buying a new part.
- For 2018-2022 models, be aware of TSB 22-2089 for A/C freezing issues, which is a separate but related problem.
- Quality aftermarket brands like Dorman and Standard Ignition are reliable and cost-effective alternatives to the OEM part.
Is Your Lincoln Navigator's A/C Acting Up? It Could Be This Sensor.
If the temperature reading on your dashboard seems wrong or your automatic climate control isn't keeping the cabin comfortable, a faulty Ambient Air Temperature (AAT) sensor is a likely culprit. This sensor provides critical data for your Navigator's comfort systems, and when it fails, it can cause noticeable issues. Fortunately, it's an inexpensive and easy part to replace.
Common Failure Symptoms
When the AAT sensor begins to fail, your Navigator will give you a few clear signs. The most common issues include:
- Incorrect Outside Temperature Display: The temperature on your dashboard will be obviously wrong, sometimes showing a reading that is off by 20-30 degrees or more. In some cases, it may get stuck on a default low reading.
- Automatic Climate Control Problems: The 'AUTO' setting for your heat and A/C may not work properly. The system might not cool or heat the cabin correctly because it's getting bad information from the sensor.
- Check Engine Light: A failed sensor can trigger the check engine light. You may see diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) such as P0071, P0072, or P0073 when scanned. 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose and fix the P0071 trouble code.
Related Issue for 2018-2022 Navigators: A/C Freezing Up (TSB 22-2089)
Owners of 2018-2022 Lincoln Navigators should be aware of a known issue described in Technical Service Bulletin 22-2089. This problem involves the evaporator temperature sensor, causing the A/C system to freeze solid and stop blowing air. A key symptom is the A/C working again after the truck has been parked for a while, allowing the ice to melt. This is a different part, but the symptoms can be confused with other A/C problems. The fix requires a dealer to replace the evaporator assembly.
🎬 See this video for a detailed explanation of TSB 22-2089.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When replacing the AAT sensor, you have several good options that don't require paying for a dealership part. The OEM brand is Motorcraft, which serves as a good quality benchmark. Aftermarket brands offer comparable quality, often at a better price.
- OEM-Equivalent Brands (Dorman, Standard Ignition): Brands like Dorman and Standard Ignition (SMP) have a long history of producing reliable aftermarket parts that are designed to be direct-fit replacements. They are engineered to match the function of the original part and are a trustworthy choice for most repairs.
- Value-Oriented Brands (URO Parts): URO Parts is another option, often providing quality components with a strong warranty, such as a 24-month unlimited mileage warranty on many of their sensors. They position themselves as a cost-effective alternative to genuine parts.
For a simple sensor like this, any of these established aftermarket brands should perform reliably. The choice often comes down to price and availability.
Pro Tip: Check the Connector
Before replacing the sensor, take a moment to inspect the electrical connector. Since the sensor is located at the front of the vehicle, the connector can get corroded or filled with debris. Sometimes, simply unplugging the sensor, cleaning the connector with electrical contact cleaner, and plugging it back in securely can solve the problem.
Cost to Replace a Lincoln Navigator Ambient Air Temperature Sensor
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Sensor | $13 - $41 |
| New OEM (Motorcraft) Sensor | $26 - $42 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the ambient air temperature sensor located on a 2016-2023 Lincoln Navigator?
The sensor is almost always located at the front of the vehicle, typically behind the grille and attached to the radiator core support or a nearby bracket. You may need to look between the grille slats or from underneath the vehicle to see it. On some Ford vehicles, it has been found in the passenger side mirror, but this is less common.
🎬 Watch: A quick guide to finding the sensor on your Ford.Can I replace this sensor myself?
Yes, this is a very easy DIY job. The sensor is usually held in by a simple clip and has one electrical connector. The most difficult part is simply accessing it, which may require basic tools to remove a plastic cover. The replacement itself should take less than 30 minutes.
Will a bad ambient temp sensor stop my A/C from working at all?
It can. If the sensor reports an extremely cold temperature, the vehicle's computer may prevent the A/C compressor from turning on to avoid damage. More often, it will cause the automatic climate control to behave incorrectly, but you may still be able to get cold air by using the manual settings.
My temperature display is stuck on -40°. Is that the sensor?
Yes, a reading of -40° is often a default value the computer displays when it receives no signal or a broken signal from the ambient air temperature sensor. This strongly indicates the sensor has failed or its wiring is damaged.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: DY-1160 AU5Z-12A647-B 9L3Z12A647A
The ambient air temperature sensor is a thermistor, which is a type of resistor whose resistance changes with temperature. It typically has a 2-pin electrical connector.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Lincoln Navigator:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Lincoln Navigator's A/C Acting Up? It Could Be This Sensor.
- Common Failure Symptoms
- Related Issue for 2018-2022 Navigators: A/C Freezing Up (TSB 22-2089)
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
- Pro Tip: Check the Connector
- Cost to Replace a Lincoln Navigator Ambient Air Temperature Sensor
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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