Impala HVAC Sensor Failure, Easy DIY Fix Tips

Had almost the exact same sensor diagnostics issue with my 2005 Chevy Malibu last summer. Being somewhat familiar with HVAC systems, I first tried checking the basic stuff, fuses and visible wiring, but couldn't solve it myself. The temperature control system was acting crazy, sometimes not responding at all, other times blasting hot air when set to cold. Took it to my regular workshop and their sensor diagnostics showed a faulty connection between the temperature sensor and the climate control module. The fix was pretty straightforward, they found a damaged wire in the connector plug going to the interior temperature sensor. Total repair cost was 95 Euro and took about an hour to complete. Before suggesting more specific solutions, could you share: Are you getting any specific error codes? Does the display work at all? Is the fan still operating? Have you noticed any unusual noises from the climate control system? These details would help narrow down if you're dealing with the same sensor replacement issue I had or something different in the temperature control system.

Just had my 52559 KM service done last month and ran into a similar temperature sensor problem. The diagnostic scan pointed to a failing interior temperature sensor, trouble code was pretty clear about it. My mechanic checked the wiring connections first before jumping to sensor replacement. The fix wasn't too expensive, sensor itself was about €75 and labor took under an hour. The temperature reading is now accurate and climate control works perfectly. If your system's showing similar symptoms, definitely check the sensor wiring harness before replacing parts. Quick tip: while troubleshooting, try unplugging and reconnecting the temp sensor. Sometimes the connection just needs cleaning. If that doesn't work, a new sensor is probably needed, it's a common fail point on these models.

Yeah, these Chevy climate control issues can be tricky. After fixing mine last summer, I learned a lot about the HVAC sensor setup. The wiring check you mentioned is spot-on, wish I'd known to try that basic troubleshooting step before rushing to replace parts. Just did the 50K service too, and the temperature reading has been rock-solid since the repair. One extra thing I discovered, the sensor diagnostics also showed that poor ventilation around the temp sensor can cause false readings. Keeping the area clear of debris made a noticeable difference in the climate control accuracy. The labor costs seem pretty consistent across repairs. My total was about €170 including parts. For anyone else hitting similar climate issues, definitely get those error codes read first. These HVAC sensors are sensitive, but they follow a pretty predictable failure pattern in these models. Quick note about the wiring harness check, sometimes the connector gets corroded over time, causing intermittent temperature control problems. A bit of electrical contact cleaner can save you from an unnecessary sensor replacement.

Thanks for sharing that info about the sensor diagnostics. You're right, these HVAC sensor issues seem pretty common in our Chevys. Just got the final repair bill, total came to €185 with parts and labor, which seems fair given the specialized climate control work. The temperature control is working perfectly now. Was definitely worth checking those wiring connections first like you suggested. My mechanic found some corrosion in the sensor harness that was causing the wonky temperature readings. After cleaning the connections and replacing the faulty temperature sensor, the whole system's back to normal. For anyone else with similar climate control problems, get those error codes checked first. The sensor replacement was straightforward once we confirmed that was the issue. These HVAC sensors can be finicky, but at least it's not too expensive or time-consuming to fix when they fail.