GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

The sun load sensor is a light sensitive photo-diode. These diodes monitor the heat load of the sun on the vehicle. The sun load sensor is utilized by the dual zone (CJ2) A/C system.

The sensor is located on the top center of the instrument panel, mounted in the defroster grille. The ambient light sensor is incorporated within the sunload sensor.

The instrument panel module (IPM) compares the sun load sensor readings to the inside temperature reading. This determines how much cooling is required in order to reach and maintain the desired temperature setting on each side of the vehicle.

In order to ensure proper operation of the sun load sensor, do not cover or obstruct the flow of sunlight to the sensor.