QuestionI have a Citroen xsara picasso Exclusive 1.6 lt. 2006. The outside temp reading on the dash is showing it to be at least 20 degrees higher than the actual outside temp. Also the internal heater on the climate control is faulty. normally I can set the climate control to 21.5 degrees and it gives a normal pleasant heat. But now it blows cold and I have to go to 25 degrees to get any heat. But as soon as I turn ignition off then on again then it blows cold again. The heaters fans are working. Any ideas?
AnswerEDITED AFTER COFFEE
Well, the temp sensor is a thermistor (higher temp causes a higher electrical resistance in a THERMistor).
Looks like either the thermistor is faulty or there's some extra resistance (corroded connector).
I don't know where the sensor is but If you can find it
***Its part of the wing mirror, one mirror has something underneath, this is it***
clean its connections (given its a temp sensor for outside air it's going to be the one component of the car most exposed to the elements, my money is on a corroded connector)
Then if the temp reading is still the same: change the sensor.
***Also check the wiring where the door hinges, this (the wiring), after years of opening and closing can become damaged - to test: operate the heater and open and close the door, any change in operation related to door position = damaged wires - easy fix
Alas, this is an electronic, microprocessor controlled system - the system itself might be toast and changing the thermistor will do nothing - that's the problem with modern cars, you need hands-on with testing equipment with these sorts of faults. (or.....
I would check the owners club for someone with the same problem....
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EXTRA
Try disconnecting the battery for a few seconds, could be the computer just needs resetting.
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failing all else:
Phone the dealer.
