The ambient light sensor is used to monitor outside lighting conditions. The ambient light sensor provides a voltage signal that will vary between 0.09 and 4.9 volts depending on outside lighting conditions. The HVAC control module provides a low reference ground and a 5-volt reference signals to the ambient light sensor. The HVAC control module monitors the ambient light sensor signal circuit to determine if outside lighting conditions are correct for either daytime running lights (DRL) or automatic lamp control (ALC) when the headlamp switch is in the AUTO position. The HVAC control module sends a signal to the body control module (BCM) via class 2 serial data commanding the BCM to turn the front turn signal lamps on steady (non-flashing). Any function or condition that turns on the headlamps will cancel the DRL operation. With the turn signal/multifunction switch in the OFF position, the turn signal lamps will either be turned ON or OFF after a 30 second delay, depending on whether daylight or low light conditions are sensed by the ambient light sensor.

Battery voltage must be between 9-16 volts.

The HVAC control module detects the ambient light sensor signal circuit is less than 5 counts (0.09 volt) or greater than 250 counts (4.75 volts) for 3 consecutive tests.

The HVAC control module defaults to low light status.

Schematic Reference

Headlights/Daytime Running Lights (DRL) Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Lighting Systems Connector End Views

Electrical Information Reference

Scan Tool Reference

1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the sunload sensor assembly.
2. Ignition OFF, test for less than 1 ohm of resistance between the low reference circuit terminal C and ground.

⇒	If greater than the specified range, test the low reference circuit for an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the HVAC control module.

3. Ignition ON, verify the scan tool ambient light sensor parameter is greater than 250 counts.

⇒	If less than the specified range, test the signal circuit terminal D for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the HVAC control module.

4. Install a 3A fused jumper wire between the signal circuit terminal D and the low reference circuit terminal C. Verify the scan tool Ambient Light Sensor parameter is less than 5 counts.

⇒	If greater than the specified range, test the signal circuit for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the HVAC control module.

5. If all circuits test normal, replace the sun load sensor assembly.

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.