What is the code P0073 on a Ford Fusion?

Understanding the P0073 Code on a Ford Fusion
The P0073 code on a Ford Fusion relates to the ambient air temperature sensor circuit high. This sensor is responsible for monitoring the outside air temperature and regulating the vehicle’s automatic climate control system. When this code is triggered, it indicates an issue with the ambient air sensor, which can lead to the Check Engine Light coming on and potential issues with the climate control system.
Causes and Symptoms
The Power Control Module (PCM) uses information from the ambient air temperature sensor to regulate the levels of ambient air temperature and intake air temperature. If the ambient air temperature exceeds that of the intake air temperature, the PCM will store the P0073 trouble code, and the Check Engine Light will illuminate. Common symptoms include the Check Engine Light being on and potential issues with the climate control system.
Diagnosis and Repair
To diagnose the P0073 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. The specific diagnosis time and labor rates at auto repair shops can differ based on factors such as the location, make and model of the vehicle, and even the engine type. It is essential to consult the vehicle service manual for more information on possible causes of the fault and required testing. The cost to diagnose the P0073 Ford code is typically 1.0 hour of labor, with most auto repair shops charging between $75 and $150 per hour.
Specific Case Example
In a specific case involving a 2014 Ford Fusion, a technician found the AAT sensor to be faulty, reporting -40F, and replaced the sensor to resolve the issue. However, even after clearing the DTC, the A/C compressor still would not engage, indicating that further diagnosis and repair may be necessary.
In summary, the P0073 code on a Ford Fusion indicates a problem with the ambient air temperature sensor circuit high, which can lead to the Check Engine Light being illuminated and potential issues with the climate control system. Diagnosis and repair typically involve consulting the vehicle service manual and may require professional assistance for resolution.

How do you fix P0073?

Fixing DTC P0073 By Replacing The AAT Sensor
As mentioned previously, a faulty AAT sensor might be the culprit for a vehicle logging DTC P0073. If a faulty sensor is indeed responsible, you’ll need to get a replacement as soon as possible to fix your vehicle.

Can you drive with a bad ambient air temperature sensor?

A bad ambient temperature air sensor hampers your vehicle’s HVAC system. While it can’t stop you from going for a drive, it can make the trip less comfortable, especially when it’s freezing or scorching hot.

How much does it cost to replace the ambient air temperature sensor?

The cost of an aftermarket ambient temperature sensor replacement may range between $15 to $100 for parts alone. Several factors affect pricing, such as brand, quantity, and warranty. Labor may cost you an additional $50 to $70, depending on the rates in your area.

What happens when ambient temperature sensor goes bad?

A malfunctioning ATS can lead to various symptoms in a vehicle. Common signs of a faulty ATS include: Reduced Engine Performance: Inaccurate temperature readings can cause the ECM to make incorrect adjustments to the air-fuel mixture, resulting in decreased engine power, acceleration, and responsiveness.

Can I drive with P0073 code?

You can almost always still drive with a P0073 code if this is the only code your engine is throwing. However, it can be a good idea to check for any other issues with driving, as well as any check engine light abnormalities.

Where is the ambient temperature temp sensor located?

A: The ambient temperature sensor is typically mounted inside or near the vehicle’s front bumper and/or behind the grille in the center radiator support. The ambient temperature sensor is a tool that measures the temperature outside the passenger compartment.

What are the symptoms of a faulty ambient temperature sensor?

Symptoms of a bad ambient air temperature sensor
Erratic temperature fluctuations: The ambient temperature reading may fluctuate suddenly and erratically, jumping between extreme temperature values or changing rapidly without a logical pattern. This can happen regardless of the actual outdoor temperature.

What is the cause of the code P0073?

What Are Some Causes of a P0073 Code? Usually, this problem has to do with an issue regarding the sensor and its connection to your PCM (powertrain control module) or ECM (engine control module). That may mean the sensor itself is damaged or that some of the wiring connecting the sensor to the PCM/ECM is damaged.

Where is the ambient temperature sensor in a Ford Fusion?

Kind of annoyingly hard. But once that’s done we should be able to simply unclip the sensor from it alright so that took no force at all it’s simply a two pin little connector for a thermocouple.

What are the symptoms of a bad air temperature sensor?

This can result in poor engine performance such as rough idle, hesitation, reduced power, or sluggish acceleration. If the IAT sensor provides inaccurate readings, the engine may have difficulty starting, especially in cold weather. It may also cause the engine to stall or die shortly after starting.