Diagnostic Tip – Outside Temperature Will Not Update Or Inaccurate – 2014-2019 Buick Cadillac Chevrolet GMC

NHTSA ID Number: 10143456

Manufacturer Communication Number: PIT5232E

Summary

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician the steps to diagnose and repair the concern of the display is showing 32° F (0° C) after a battery or reprogramming a module. The outside temperature will begin to update if driven above 20 mph for at least 5 minutes. If the vehicle speed drops below 20 mph, the timer will reset and the display will stop updating. Once the display starts to update it may take several more minutes of driving above 20 mph for the display to fully update. Also if the vehicle is shut off for more than 8 hours the display will update when the ignition is turned on.

 


Condition / Concern

Some owners may comment of any of the following issues:

– The outside temperature display is inaccurate and will not update.
– The outside temperature display takes too long to update.
– The outside temperature display shows 32° F (0° C). This concern may have started after disconnecting the battery or reprogramming a module.
– Poor HVAC performance

Note: The HVAC control module uses the ambient temperature as an input to help control the a/c compressor operation, HVAC temperature door settings, etc.

 

Recommendations / Instructions

Do NOT replace or reprogram any of the following modules as it will not correct the concern:

– IPC
– Radio Display/ICS
– Radio/Tuner
– HMI
– HVAC control module
– ECM

Please make sure the customer is aware of the following information regarding how the outside temperature updates:

The ambient temperature uses an algorithm that delays updating the display until certain conditions are met. This ensures that the sensor does not detect engine or road heat when the vehicle is idling/slow speed driving.

The outside temperature will begin to update if driven above 20 mph for at least 5 minutes. If the vehicle speed drops below 20 mph, the timer will reset back to 5 minutes and/or stop updating. Once the display starts to update, it may take several more minutes of driving above 20 mph for the display to fully update. Additionally, if the vehicle sits for at least 8 hours, the display will be updated when the ignition is turned on.

Short trip driving habits along with large outside temperature swings between the ambient temperature in the morning as compared to later in the day/afternoon, like in the spring and fall seasons, can aggravate this concern. The morning temperatures can be very cold (example 30 degs F) and later in the day/afternoon the outside temperature can be much higher (example 70 degs F). In this example, if the vehicle was started in the morning, with an outside temperature of 30 degs F and then later in the day the vehicle was restarted when the outside temperature is much higher example 70 degs F, it may need the above drive cycle for the outside temperature display to update and improve HVAC performance.

Also, remember anything attached or mounted to the front of the vehicle, such as, snow plow, winter grille cover, etc. can restrict air flow to the outside temperature sensor and affect the accuracy of the sensor.

 


43 Affected Products

Vehicles

MAKEMODELYEAR
BUICKENVISION2016-2018
CADILLACESCALADE2015-2018
CHEVROLETSILVERADO2017
CHEVROLETSILVERADO 15002014
CHEVROLETSILVERADO 25002015-2016, 2018-2019
CHEVROLETSILVERADO 4500HD2019
CHEVROLETSUBURBAN2015-2018
CHEVROLETTAHOE2015-2018
GMCSIERRA2017
GMCSIERRA 15002014-2016
GMCSIERRA 35002018
GMCYUKON2015-2018
GMCYUKON DENALI2015-2018
GMCYUKON DENALI XL2015-2018
GMCYUKON XL2015-2018

 


1 Associated Document

Manufacturer Communications

Bulletin No.: PIT5232E
Published date: 06/27/2018

MC-10143456-9999.pdf 102.95KB

 


NHTSA ID Number: 10123216

Manufacturer Communication Number: PIT5232D

Summary

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician the steps to diagnose and repair the concern of the display is showing 32° F (0° C) after a battery or reprogramming a module. The outside temperature will begin to update if driven above 20 mph for at least 5 minutes. If the vehicle speed drops below 20 mph, the timer will reset and the display will stop updating. Once the display starts to update it may take several more minutes of driving above 20 mph for the display to fully update. Also if the vehicle is shut off for more than 8 hours the display will update when the ignition is turned on.

 

1 Associated Document

Manufacturer Communications

Bulletin No.: PIT5232D
Published date: 10/2/2017

MC-10123216-9999.pdf 75.45KB

 


NHTSA ID Number: 10119027

Manufacturer Communication Number: PIT5232C

Summary

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician the steps to diagnose and repair the concern of the display is showing 32° F (0° C) after a battery or reprogramming a module. The outside temperature will begin to update if driven above 20 mph for at least 5 minutes. If the vehicle speed drops below 20 mph, the timer will reset and the display will stop updating. Once the display starts to update it may take several more minutes of driving above 20 mph for the display to fully update. Also if the vehicle is shut off for more than 8 hours the display will update when the ignition is turned on.

 

1 Associated Document

Manufacturer Communications

Bulletin No.: PIT5232C
Date: Oct-2016

MC-10119027-9999.pdf 92.774KB

 


NHTSA ID Number: 10113924

Manufacturer Communication Number: PIT5232B

Summary

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician the steps to diagnose and repair the concern of the display is showing 32° F (0° C) after a battery or reprogramming a module. The outside temperature will begin to update if driven above 20 mph for at least 5 minutes. If the vehicle speed drops below 20 mph, the timer will reset and the display will stop updating. Once the display starts to update it may take several more minutes of driving above 20 mph for the display to fully update. Also if the vehicle is shut off for more than 8 hours the display will update when the ignition is turned on.

 

1 Associated Document

Manufacturer Communications

Bulletin No.: PIT5232B
Date: Mar-2016

MC-10113924-9999.pdf 89.439KB

 


NHTSA ID Number: 10112054

Manufacturer Communication Number: PIT5232A

Summary

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician the steps to diagnose and repair the concern of the display is showing 32° F (0° C) after a battery or reprogramming a module. The outside temperature will begin to update if driven above 20 mph for at least 5 minutes. If the vehicle speed drops below 20 mph, the timer will reset and the display will stop updating. Once the display starts to update it may take several more minutes of driving above 20 mph for the display to fully update. Also if the vehicle is shut off for more than 8 hours the display will update when the ignition is turned on.

 

1 Associated Document

Manufacturer Communications

Bulletin No.: PIT5232A
Date: May-2014

MC-10112054-9999.pdf 88.824KB

 


NHTSA ID Number: 10070588

Manufacturer Communication Number: PIT5232A

Summary

SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.

 

1 Associated Document

Service Bulletin Document

Bulletin No.: PIT5232A
Date: May, 2014

SB-10070588-0335.pdf 217.636KB

 


 

SaleBestseller No. 1
GEARWRENCH Professional Bi-Directional Diagnostic Scan Tool | GWSMARTBT
  • OE-Level diagnostics on your smart device
  • FREE Software updates - No subscriptions, no fees – EVER
  • Full bi-directional control, live actuation test
  • Supports 23 vehicle reset/relearn functions, including throttle matching, ABS bleeding, TPMS reset, etc.
  • Live data mapping and freeze frame capturing
SaleBestseller No. 2
ANCEL AD310 Classic Enhanced Universal OBD II Scanner Car Engine Fault Code Reader CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool, Read and Clear Error Codes for 1996 or Newer OBD2 Protocol Vehicle (Black)
  • CEL Doctor: The ANCEL AD310 is one of the best-selling OBD II scanners on the market and is recommended by Scotty Kilmer, a YouTuber and auto mechanic. It can easily determine the cause of the check engine light coming on. After repairing the vehicle's problems, it can quickly read and clear diagnostic trouble codes of emission system, read live data & hard memory data, view freeze frame, I/M monitor readiness and collect vehicle information
  • Sturdy and Compact: Equipped with a 2.5 foot cable made of very thick, flexible insulation. It is important to have a sturdy scanner as it can easily fall to the ground when working in a car. The AD310 OBD2 scanner is a well-constructed mechanic tool with a sleek design. It weighs 12 ounces and measures 8.9 x 6.9 x 1.4 inches. Thanks to its compact design and light weight, transporting the device is not a problem. The buttons are clearly labelled and the screen is large and displays results clearly
  • Accurate Fast and Easy to Use: The AD310 scanner can help you or your mechanic understand if your car is in good condition, provides exceptionally accurate and fast results, reads and clears engine trouble emission codes in seconds after you fixed the problem. This device will let you know immediately and fix the problem right away without any car knowledge. No need for batteries or a charger, get power directly from the OBDII Data Link Connector in your vehicle
  • OBDII Protocols and Car Compatibility: Many cheap scan tools do not really support all OBD2 protocols. AD310 scanner as it can support all OBDII protocols such as KWP2000, J1850 VPW, ISO9141, J1850 PWM and CAN. This device also has extensive vehicle compatibility with 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based and Asian cars, light trucks, SUVs, as well as newer OBD2 and CAN vehicles both domestic and foreign. Pls confirm with our customer service whether it is compatible with your vehicle before purchasing
  • Home Necessity and Worthy to Own: This is an excellent code reader to travel or home with as it weighs less and it is compact in design. You can easily slide it in your backpack as you head to the garage, or put it on the dashboard, this will be a great fit for you. The AD310 is not only portable, but also accurate and fast in performance. Moreover, it covers various car brands and is suitable for people who just need a code reader to check their car
Bestseller No. 3
Innova 5610 OBD2 Bidirectional Scan Tool - Understand Your Vehicle, Pinpoint What's Wrong, and Complete Your Repairs with Less Headache, Updates Included, US-Based Technical Support
  • MAINTAIN PEAK PERFORMANCE AND SAFETY ON THE ROAD - Easily find and fix the problem with your vehicle using the INNOVA 5610 bidirectional scan tool. This OBD2 scanner diagnostic tool provides real-time solutions to troubleshoot issues. Access OBD2 and OEM live data with ease, making it an essential car scanner diagnostic tool. Perfect for those seeking reliable car diagnostic scanner and code readers & scan tools for vehicles.
  • PRO-LEVEL FUNCTIONALITIES - Use the INNOVA 5610’s Enhanced Data Stream to view live data for advanced systems like ABS, SRS, transmission, and engine. The Special Reset Function lets you use dealership-level re-learn procedures. This car diagnostic scanner is ideal for those needing a bidirectional scan tool or mechanic tools automotive for professional repairs. Compatible with select vehicle makes and models; not universal.
  • COMMAND WITH BIDIRECTIONAL CONTROLS - The INNOVA 5610 bidirectional scan tool sends commands to test functions such as fuel pump on/off or retracting the electronic parking brake. With this car scanner diagnostic for all cars, you can operate like a pro. Ideal for those seeking a car code reader and reset tool or advanced fixd car diagnostic tool capabilities. Compatible with select vehicle makes and models; not universal.
  • EASY TO USE - The INNOVA 5610 OBD2 scanner diagnostic tool supports English, Spanish, and French. Easily use this scanner for car on most 1996 - 2023 (2024 coming soon) OBD2 vehicles to verify repairs. Designed for ease of operation, it’s a dependable code reader for cars and trucks and check engine code reader. To confirm vehicle coverage, please utilize Innova's Coverage Checker.
  • BUY AND DRIVE WITH CONFIDENCE - Backed by ASE-Certified support, this car scanner pairs with the RepairSolutions2 app, trusted by 4M users, for wireless OBD scanner functionality. With free updates and no subscription fees, this durable car computer diagnostic reader ensures you’re prepared for any repair. A must-have diagnostic scanner for vehicles.
SaleBestseller No. 4
TOPDON ArtiDiag Pro Bidirectional Scan Tool with ECU Coding, 35+ Services
  • 2026 Advanced ECU Coding Scan Tool: Maximize the capabilities of your vehicles with the ArtiDiag Pro. This scan tool, seamlessly compatible with renowned models such as VW, A-U-D-I, SKODA, SEAT, BENZ, and more, empowers you to uncover hidden features, deactivate annoying functions, and code retrofitted components for peak performance. Ensure a backup before coding and steer clear of problems on low battery levels.
  • Efficient Diagnostics with Bidirectional Control: Say goodbye to uncertainty, streamline diagnostics, and reclaim valuable time with ArtiDiag Pro scan tool. This bidirectional scan tool exceeds expectations, enabling targeted tests on individual actuators to swiftly identify and resolve issues. Covering lights, door locks, fuel and coolant systems, windows, wipers, EVAP, and more in vehicle components.
  • 35+ Services Resolve 90% of Repair Challenges: Unleash maximum productivity with the ArtiDiag Pro, a scan tool that tackles 90% of maintenance issues through its 35 special functions. Effortlessly clear oil maintenance indicators with oil reset. Engage the EPB Reset for brake system management and establish precise alignment with the Steering Angle Reset to define the straight-line reference position for your vehicle.
  • FCA Autoauth : This diagnostic tool supports Autoauth for FCA SGW/Renault, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Fiat etc. 2017 and later. NOTE: Due to Product Upgrade, there is no Chrysler 12+8 adapter, the BMW-20 Adapter in the package any more. We are sincerely sorry for the inconvenience. NOTE: Please confirm compatibility before purchase.(Topdon Website>Support>Vehicle Coverage)
  • Professional Customer Support: At TOPDON, your satisfaction is our unwavering commitment. Experience hassle-free support and a lifetime of expert assistance. Should you encounter any challenges, reach out to us at 833-629-4832. For returns, please damage the packaging to prevent Amazon from reselling it. Please be advised that after two years, a subscription fee of 249 Bucks will apply.
Bestseller No. 5
BlueDriver OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth, No Subscription, ABS SRS TPMS
  • [Diagnose Like a Pro] BlueDriver Pro is a professional OBD2 scanner and diagnostic tool that helps you scan, understand, and clear vehicle trouble codes with confidence. Turn your phone into a powerful car diagnostic scanner—no guesswork, no unnecessary repairs.
  • [Read and Clear More Codes Than Ever] Read and clear more codes than basic car code readers. Access enhanced diagnostics for Check Engine, ABS, SRS, Airbag, TPMS, Transmission.
  • [Verified Fixes and Real-Time Data] Get unlimited, technician-verified repair reports matched to your VIN, with definitions, causes, and confirmed fixes. Monitor live vehicle data as you drive, view freeze frames, check smog readiness, and analyze Mode 6 test results.
  • [Wireless & Bluetooth Enabled] - Say goodbye to wires. BlueDriver connects with Bluetooth via your phone/tablet to a sensor that plugs into your car's OBDII port. Get all of the capabilities of an expensive code reader & scan tool without any annoying wires.
  • [Broad Make & Model Coverage] Strong support for GM, Ford, Stellantis (RAM, Jeep, Chrysler), Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and VW.

 


This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.

20 thoughts on “Diagnostic Tip – Outside Temperature Will Not Update Or Inaccurate – 2014-2019 Buick Cadillac Chevrolet GMC”

  1. Had to replace my 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 with a 2017 GMC Sierra and I now have the exact same problem with the external temperature display. Looks like someone is going to have to start a civil action lawsuit against GM to get this problem fixed. The software genius that wrote this code and the approving group should all be fired. Don’t any body hold your breath over this because because it is not going to be fixed. If you are thinking about buying a GMC product, go some where else instead.

    Reply
  2. Don’t know if my prob is the same as everyone else, but…
    Internal temp reads—-F
    A day later, my heater stopped lighting up.
    Driver side is slightly blowing hot
    Passenger side blowing slightly cold
    I have a 2013 suburban
    Paying for 2 kids college and panicking
    Please help!

    Reply
  3. I’m having the same issue with my 2015 Sierra 1500. Worked fine until we had a cold snap, now it seems to read 15-20 degrees Celsius warmer outside than it actually is. Is there really no fix for this??

    Reply
  4. Bought brand new 2017 canyon and temp sensor for ambient air not adjusting upward effecting auto ac function. Live in city and cannot drive far enough to change so auto function not working. Simple fix to reprogram but they do not want recall. They know what to do but do not want to do it!

    Reply
  5. I took my 2017 Silverado into the dealer for this outside temp inaccurate problem. Because the climate control system uses this temp reading, if its reading the wrong temp then the climate control doesn’t work properly. Of course the dealer said they tested everything and found no problems (heavy sigh right here). They gave me a copy of this service bulletin and basically told me I will just have to do the “drive for 5 minutes above 20 mph to reset the temp” speech. Guess what? If you are driving in the city going stop light to stop light, both of these criteria WILL NEVER GET MET AND YOUR TEMP SENSOR WILL NEVER RESET! When I told my dealer this, they just said there is nothing they can do if they cant diagnose a problem. WOW! They are literally holding a copy of this very service bulletin while they tell me they wont fix my truck. Way to go Chevy!
    OK so the next step is I call Chevrolet warranty assistance. All they would do is call the dealer. Of course the dealer told them they wont do anything about it so Chevrolet warranty assistance just agreed with the dealer and said there is nothing they can do. Nice.
    So here I am with a $40,000 truck, that’s under warranty, with a freaked out climate control system because the ambient air temp is wrong because General Motors cant write a real world usable algorithm…… and nobody will write a firmware fix for it. Chevrolet, Your customer service is absolutely horrendous.

    Reply
      • I Can and probably will. What needs to happen though are more people need to become vocal about this issue since General Motors refuses to correct it. I, and others, just want my truck fixed.

        Reply
    • I’ve been taking my 2017 Yukon XL to the dealership since I purchased it in January of 2017 for the exact same issue with the same diagnosis (with lack of resolution) and it is at a different dealership today (a year and a half later) with the same diagnosis. At the start of my journey, I had a GM consumer advocate and went through numerous conversations and cases with them only to have them closed out each time. The minute I mentioned legal advise/action, they informed me they could no longer speak with me if that was the path I was taking next. I’m still a frustrated, furious customer with a very expensive SUV that can’t provide the amenities that I paid for because they won’t update a ridiculously thought out program algorithm!!!!

      Reply
  6. Changed battery on my 2016 GMC pickup and temp showed 32 deg. After driving 30 miles in 104 deg temp it now reads 87 deg. The best solution I have found is place a small square of black electrical tape over the display.

    Reply
  7. If you hold down the AC button and press the AC recycle air button at the same time, the outdoor temp gets reset

    Reply
  8. We have the same issue on our 2017 Tahoe. The dealership gave us a copy of the same publication. This is CRAP! They are spending more money trying cover-up an issue than addressing it.

    This PROBLEM has been fixed by Ford, Toyota, and Subaru that I have personal experience with. I am sure that MANY other OEMs have also fixed this.

    What is GM’s problem? They should be ashamed!

    Reply
  9. The outside temp sensor not working properly, is the latest in a LONG line of computer problems with my 2016 Sierra. My selling dealer can’t touch anything to do with with the software, without GM’s authorization.
    I kick myself in the ass for not buying the F-150!

    Reply
  10. Have a 2017 GMC Sierra with the same problem. So all the time I drive in the city I never get an update on temperature. Need to get this fixed, dumb programming.

    Reply
  11. The temp reading also affects the climate control system. Per the 2017 Silverado owners manual…..two sensors that work with the climate control system. A solar sensor and the exterior temp sensor.
    What I experienced one time was that once the air temp updated the AC went to max cooling.
    So this problem with the air temp needs to be addressed by GM.

    Reply
  12. Just bought 2017 Silverado and temp read out inaccurate, utterly ridiculous to have to drive per dealer 55 MPH for 4 miles to get it to update. my 2017 Impala works fine, GM what were you thinking ??

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Share to...