GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The driver information center (DIC) applies 5 volts to the ambient air temperature sensor. The ambient air temperature sensor is a thermistor which varies in resistance as the temperature changes. As the resistance of the ambient air temperature sensor increases, the DIC senses a larger voltage drop across the sensor, indicating a lower temperature. As the resistance of the ambient air temperature sensor decreases, the DIC senses a smaller voltage drop across the sensor, indicating a higher temperature.

Conditions for Running the DTC

The DIC must be fully operational within a continuous voltage supply of 9.0 to 16.0 volts.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The sensed temperature must be greater than 60°C (140°F) for more than 2 seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

SC is displayed by the DIC in the compass/temperature mode when the condition is present.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • DTC B0160 status changes from current to history when the condition is no longer present.
    • History DTC B0160 will clear after 100 consecutive fault free ignition cycles.
    • The DTC can be cleared with a scan tool.

Test Description

The number below refers to the step number on the diagnostic table.

  1. Tests for the proper operation of the circuit in the high voltage range.

Step

Action

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Driver Information System Schematics

1

Did you perform the DIC Diagnostic System Check?

Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Driver Information Systems

2

Does the driver information center (DIC) display SC?

Go to Step 3

Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems

3

  1. Turn OFF the ignition.
  2. Disconnect the ambient air temperature sensor connector.
  3. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.

Does the DIC display OC?

Go to Step 5

Go to Step  4

4

Test the signal circuit of the ambient air temperature sensor for a short to ground. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 7

5

Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the ambient air temperature sensor. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 6

6

Replace the ambient air temperature sensor. Refer to Ambient Air Temperature Gage Sensor Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

Go to Step 8

--

7

Important: Perform the set up procedure for the replacement DIC.

Replace the DIC. Refer to Driver Information Center Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

Go to Step 8

--

8

  1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.
  2. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC as specified in the supporting text.

Does the DTC reset?

Go to Step 2

System OK