Volvo Repair: IAT Sensor on Volvo, coolant temperature sensor, engine coolant temperature sensor

Question
Hi Regis,

I own a 1996 Volvo 960 wagon.  Would like to know what an "IAT Sensor" function is?  Is there a test to run or diagnosis to perform to determine if this part is needed or is malfunctioning?  Is this a difficult part to replace?  

Also, do service facilities utilize any type of book to determine how long a particular service for a vehicle will take - like an industry standard for quoting prices.  Thanks much for your time.

Answer
an IAT sensor can be many types of sensors.it just means it is some type of temperature sensor.my guess is your car has a bad engine coolant temperature sensor for the fuel system.you would need to check the components resistance and compare it to its specified range.

most use chiltons time which a a industry standard for general repairs.they may also use warranty time by the manufacturer adjusted by a multiplier.say warranty time plus a half.so if a job pays warranty 3 hours customer pay might be 4.5 hours.