I was driving home from work last night, outside temp around 68 degrees when I started. Ended up getting stuck in some traffic, and ambient temperature reading got up to 73 degrees by the time I got home.

Outside temperature was falling if anything (went from dusk to dark). I can only assume that the ambient temperature sensor was picking up heat thrown off the car, as it definetly heats up when stuck in traffic. Any idea where the sensor is located? Is this "normal"?

 

to find sensor I would look thru manual or call dealer

 

It is very difficult to get an accurate reading from an ambient temp sensor on a vehicle. I don't know where Mazda put it, but it's a hell of a lot more accurate than my 2000 Isuzu Trooper. Pull up to a stoplight, and watch the temperature climb from 85 to 105 degrees. Must have put it under the hood somewhere.

 

The ambient sensor is just inside the main air intake on the drivers side. Even if you have a plate in front, you can see it in the corner of the intake, if you use a flashlight.

I find it pretty accurate, when moving.
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doc

 

When it's 105 out, it pretty much stays at 105 Yes, it's still hot out here..... 102 today, it's cold!!! wooooo wooooo!

 

hmm, may vary in location then.

According to wiring manual, and on my RX-8 it is at the front, drivers side, in front of the wheel well, behind and below the oil cooler.

 

Does that mean that once underway, it's measuring air that has passed through (and been heated by) the oil cooler?

 

I think this is what's everyone taking about. There is a different one in the engine bay near the smog pump, but not sure it's a temp sensor or a barometer.

 

Thanks folks.