B0159
Outside Temperature Sensor Range/Performance
The HVAC control module reports an out-of-range or implausible reading from the outside air temperature sensor. The displayed value may be stuck or impossibly high/low.
- Check engine light: Not always
- Emissions related: No
- Repair difficulty: easy
Symptoms
- Warning light or symbol related to the affected system
- Comfort or safety function impaired
Common causes
Ordered by how often each turns out to be the cause.
- Outside temperature sensor failedCommon
- Wiring or connector faultPossible
- Sensor element aged beyond calibration windowLess likely
Parts involved
- Outside Temperature Sensor
- Hvac Control Module
B0159 is a generic OBD-II code defined by SAE J2012. Exact wording and diagnostic procedure vary by manufacturer and model. Code definitions are drawn from the public-domain OBDex dataset; the workshop notes are our own.