SQLGuy

Hi folks,

Just wondering what's involved in replacing the HVAC inside temperature sensor on the console. Is it neccessary to pull the whole console, or is it possible to reach it from underneath with the PS side console side panel off?

Thanks,
Paul

danglerb

It does NOT pry off.

Official way is dash R&R, but I think some have gone in through the glovebox?

https://rennlist.com/forums/928-foru...mp-sensor.html

SQLGuy

Thanks.

I know it doesn't pry off, but, unfortunately, someone who had access to the car in the past did not know that!

Oh well, I guess I'll combine it with shift bushing and shifter foam work I've got queued up...

Cheers,
Paul

Bill Ball

Dash does not have to come out. Just the center console needs to be removed.

Mrmerlin

you cant get to it from the inside the glovebox either

StratfordShark

Replaced mine recently which required centre console removal, after which it's easy to work inside on removing the faulty sensor and installing replacement.

Things line up better when you replace console if you first install the two bolts which hold the console at top of centre vent.

Have a grabber or magnetic pick-up handy for the "hidden" glovebox bolt which lives behind grommet.

Espritman

Too many of us have discovered that it does not pry off. Seems to me I've read that there's an aftermarket replacement 'grill cap' installed from the outside if that's all you need. Anyone know the details?
If not, how much $$ is the sensor unit? I gotta' do it too.
Bob
'88 S4

SQLGuy

The sensor is about $80 new from the typical good sources. The cap is about $40, depending on material.

I got a used sensor from eBay for reasonably cheap money.

Calgary Ole

Nichole from Hooked on Cars has the stick on covers or if you are here in Canada, Jaeger is the maker. I have a brushed aluminum cover that looks very nice and I can post a pic this afternoon when I get home if anybody wants to see.

mcholdfast

There's a couple of vacuum actuators, footwell and comb flap, that will be easy access while you've got the console out. You may want to consider replacing or at least checking these while you're in there. It seems that the bladder in the footwell actuator is always the first to go.

WallyP

"It seems that the bladder in the footwell actuator is always the first to go."

Nope - comb flap actuator diaphragm (orange line) is usually first...

mcholdfast

You would know better than I but I've had three and know of one other with bad footwell bladders when all the rest were OK.
Sorry to the OP for the hijack.

Calgary Ole

Pic of the cover for those who have damage. Comes in different colors and materials

FREAKINHEAT

Calgary Ole, Do you a photo of the sensor from the side? I wanted to see the profile shot of it to see how high it sticks out. How does it stay in place by the way? Thanks.

Bill Ball

The aluminum one is very thin and painted flat black is hard to tell from stock.