P0073
Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit A High
Sensor / climate input
Generic OBD-II
Low
What it means
P0073 means the ambient (outside) air temperature sensor circuit is reading high — typically an open circuit or a short-to-voltage, so the signal looks unrealistically cold. This sensor feeds the outside-temp display and climate/A/C control, not core engine fueling, so the engine runs normally. The usual causes are a failed sensor, corroded connector, or damaged wiring.
Low
Can I keep driving? The engine runs and drives normally; this mainly affects the outside-temperature reading and climate/AC control.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Inaccurate or stuck outside-temperature reading on the dash
- Automatic climate control or A/C behaving oddly
- Possible cooling-fan behavior changes
Common causes
Most likely first
- Faulty ambient air temperature sensorLikely
- Open circuit or short-to-voltage in the sensor wiringCommon
- Corroded or loose connector at the sensorCommon
- Damaged wiring near the sensor (front of vehicle, exposed to weather)Less often
- Failed ECM/PCM input (least likely)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and check the sensor's reported temperature against actual outside temperature.
- Inspect the sensor and connector (usually near the grille/front bumper) for corrosion or damage.
- Check the wiring for an open or a short-to-voltage back to the module.
- Measure sensor resistance against spec; replace the sensor if out of range.
- Repair wiring/connector faults, clear the code, and confirm the reading is correct.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0073?+
Yes. This sensor doesn't affect how the engine runs — it mainly affects the temperature display and climate control. Fix it at your convenience.
Can I just clear P0073?+
It will come back until the sensor or wiring is repaired, since the circuit reads high (open) continuously.
Related codes
Often seen with P0073
Read & clear P0073 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX