Fault code P0072 – a step-by-step guide to diagnosing and fixing it

Error code P0072 is displayed and the check engine light is on - what does this mean?

DTC P0072 is recognized by the OBD system when the outside temperature sensor sends a low voltage signal to the engine control unit. This error code relates to the climate management system and can occur with different vehicle manufacturers, although the exact designation may vary slightly.

What causes can this error code have?

• Defective outside temperature sensor
• Damaged or corroded sensor cable
• Loose or dirty plug connections
• Short circuit in the sensor wiring
• Defective engine control unit (rare)
• Mechanical damage to the sensor due to stone chips
• Moisture or corrosion in the sensor housing

What symptoms occur in parallel with fault code P0072?

• Air conditioning: Irregular or faulty function of the automatic climate control system
• Display: Incorrect or missing outside temperature display in the dashboard
• Heating: Delayed or insufficient heating output at cold temperatures
• Ventilation: Automatic ventilation control not working properly
• Comfort: Reduced driving comfort due to faulty air conditioning

How to fix the problem of error code P0072?

• Repairing the P0072 error code requires a systematic approach to identify the cause.
• Replace the outside temperature sensor, as this is usually the main cause of the low voltage value
• Check the wiring of the sensor completely and repair or replace damaged cables
• Clean plug connections, remove corrosion and ensure that all contacts are firmly seated
• Use a multimeter to measure the voltage at the sensor and identify short circuits
• Check the sensor housing for mechanical damage and replace the entire sensor if damaged
• Delete error code with OBD scanner and carry out test drive to verify the repair