Inaccurate outdoor temp sensor
02-04-2019, 10:03 PM
#1
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Thread Starter
Inaccurate outdoor temp sensor
I understand outside temperature readings may not register accuately. due to certain conditions however, I’m consistently seeing readings >5 degrees warmer than it should. Anyone else experiencing similar Issues?
02-04-2019, 10:23 PM
#2
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Nope, mine is very accurate.
02-04-2019, 10:30 PM
#3
Three Wheelin'
Accurate here too.
02-05-2019, 10:00 AM
#4
Rennlist Member
Cars use thermistors instead of thermometers, so they're inherently not as accurate. This is why you might jump in on a really hot day and see 5-10 F higher than the actual outdoor temp. Once you drive around it should stabilize and become more accurate
02-05-2019, 10:11 AM
#6
Rocky Mountain High
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I had an issue in my 997 where the sensor fell out of the bracket in the bumper, and it was dangling down by the radiator. This caused it to give inaccurate readings, but they were 25 degrees too warm or more. I wonder if your sensor is dislodged?
02-05-2019, 12:29 PM
#7
Race Car
The one on my Macan got flakey. The cure- clean off the dirt with a damp rag. That was easy as its readily visible and reachable. I have no idea where its hidden on a 991.
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02-05-2019, 12:33 PM
#8
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Thread Starter
02-05-2019, 01:09 PM
#9
As stated the sensor is a thermistor and it is located at the front of the vehicle.
The reading when the vehicle is standing still will not be accurate if the coolant is warm or the sun is hitting the sensor.
If the sensor is inaccurate all the time sensor should be replaced.
The reading when the vehicle is standing still will not be accurate if the coolant is warm or the sun is hitting the sensor.
If the sensor is inaccurate all the time sensor should be replaced.
02-05-2019, 07:03 PM
#10
I've never had one in a vehicle that was accurate. However, the 911 is about the closest I've had, but it still jumps anywhere from +5 to +10 degrees on hot sunny days. I suppose that should be expected since reported temps are taken in the shade.
02-06-2019, 01:45 PM
#11
Three Wheelin'
These devices are not spot on accurate. I have three cars and they never seem to display the same temp. I'd say a 4-5 degree difference is not out of the question. Also, keep in mind that the temp is measured low down at the front of the car. Therefor, it's registering the warmer air radiating off the pavement. Although, that's probably not a problem in Boston this time of year. 
02-06-2019, 02:08 PM
#12
Rennlist Member
Thread Starter
These devices are not spot on accurate. I have three cars and they never seem to display the same temp. I'd say a 4-5 degree difference is not out of the question. Also, keep in mind that the temp is measured low down at the front of the car. Therefor, it's registering the warmer air radiating off the pavement. Although, that's probably not a problem in Boston this time of year.