BMW Repair: Ambient Temperature sensor for e46 323i 1999, parking barriers, sensor wires

Question
Hello,
Could you tell me where the Ambient Temperature sensor is located ?
Thanks,
Vlad  

Answer
Hi Vlad,
The ambient temp sensor is a 3-4 inch black plastic part that tapers to a blunt point.
It is usually located at the front right lower end area of the bumper (in what we call the splash shield), which usually scrapes and gets damaged when you drive over parking barriers.
In some models, the sensor is in the left area. Another sensor is located in these same areas, the heated washer temp sensor, but it is round in shape.
The ambient temp sensor when damaged (scraped or abraded, or
completely torn away complete with the wire connectors) would give you ridiculous temp readings (-40 degrees).
You can easily replace this. Both sensor, wires and connector, even the splash shield can be purchased separately.
The sensor don't just give you readings of the outside temp.
It is an important input of the aircon control module.
Tino