Does Anyone Know What this Is?

[rmoudry]

I was cleaning up some oil spilled during an oil change and while I had the airbox out, I spotted this wired component, looks like a sensor lying on the top of the engine area. I then found the round receptacle just under and slightly in back of the intercooler hose that seemed it might be where this was mounted. Proceeded to insert it from the rear and it popped into place. I did notice the decklid fan did not engage yesterday after a drive, but cannot be absolutely sure of that.

I have attached to lousy photos in hopes someone might know what this piece is for so if something goes wrong, I might be able to trace it back.

Thanks for any help.

[Loren]

Yes, engine compartment air temperature sensor.

It should be placed back in the bracket that holds it on the right side of the engine.

If it is just laying in the engine compartment it can give false readings and cause the engine compartment purge fan to run too often (or not shut off).

[rmoudry]

Great! Thanks for the quick reply. It did seem to run quite often. Can it become defective or perhaps even blow a fuse?

Thanks again.

[Loren]

Not likely - it needs to be put back in it's holder (usually a grommet I think to hold it in place).

It measures air temperature so if the sensor is touching metal - then it gets wrong readings.

[jpflip]

The holding device is besides (metal loop) the steering pump reservoir....

Edited August 31, 2013 by jpflip