What Is the P0073 Code?
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Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
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Difficulty of Inspecting
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The P0073 code indicates that there’s an issue with the sensor that reads the temperature of the inside of the car. It can be used to adjust operating conditions depending on the outside temperature, and it’s also used to display the outside temperature. When you’re using an automatic air conditioning system within your car, this sensor may also be responsible for the car’s air conditioning or heating system turning on. If one of the sensors fails, then you may receive a P0073 code or related code that indicates an issue with the temperature sensors, either inside or outside the car.
More About the P0073 Code
The P0073 code is one of the most common codes out there, especially as temperature regulation inside vehicles becomes more complex. Your vehicle may need to read outside air temperature, interior air temperature, engine temperature, air conditioning function, and more, and if any of them fail, you could get a P0073 code. Depending on the code you receive, the make and model of your vehicle, and how recent the vehicle is, this may have a significant impact on the comfort of your car, or it may have very little impact.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P0073 Code?
The most common symptom you might notice is that your air conditioning or heating may not perform appropriately. You may find that you need to turn your temperature further in the desired direction than you typically did in the past or that it’s difficult to get to your desired temperature. The check engine light will not usually turn on, but if you have another malfunctioning indicator light, you may see that light turn on instead. Temperature readings of the outside temperature may also be inaccurate.
What Are Some Causes of a P0073 Code?
Usually, this problem has to do with an issue regarding the sensor and its connection to your PCM (powertrain control module) or ECM (engine control module). That may mean the sensor itself is damaged or that some of the wiring connecting the sensor to the PCM/ECM is damaged. In very rare cases, there may be a problem with the PCM/ECM, but in these instances, you’ll typically receive other diagnostic codes, not just the P0073.
How Serious Is the P0073 Code?
A P0073 code is one of the least serious diagnostic codes you can receive. Although it can definitely be frustrating, especially if the temperature outside is especially difficult to handle, it’s typically not very serious. However, you should still look to get your car to an expert to see whether you can fix the problem, as having your car in good working condition is most people’s goal overall.
Can I Still Drive with a P0073 Code?
You can almost always still drive with a P0073 code if this is the only code your engine is throwing. However, it can be a good idea to check for any other issues with driving, as well as any check engine light abnormalities. If the P0073 code is due to an issue with the PCM or ECM, which is rare but possible, then you may need to get your car to an expert more quickly than you would if it’s only this code. Generally, getting at least a checkup for your car is an important part of making sure you’re safe to keep driving.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0073 Code?
A P0073 code is fairly easy to diagnose on average. Most of the time, it’s because of a damaged or corroded sensor connection. Oftentimes, you only have to look at the sensor connections to see whether they’re damaged. However, if everything looks alright and you’re still getting this code, you’ll need to go a little bit deeper. This is where the diagnosis process can be a bit more difficult.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0073 Code?
Again, the inspection is typically very simple; it’s common for you to be able to tell whether one of these sensors is broken just by looking at it. The problem only arises when your sensors look just fine, but you’re still having one of these code concerns. In this case, you should get an expert to help, especially if you’re a beginner without a lot of experience regarding car issues.
Need Additional Help with Your P0073 Code?
Although the P0073 code doesn’t typically interact with your ability to drive the vehicle, it can definitely make the process uncomfortable, and if you live in an area where the outside temperature is often unpleasant, fixing the internal temperature can be a top priority. In these cases, it’s best to look for an expert who can help you fix the problem.
With Kelley’s help, you can find repair shops near you, which can make it easier for you to find an expert that can help you fix this problem.
If your engine is also returning other diagnostic codes, or you just want to learn more about the diagnostic coding library, then you can also use the KBB OBD-II code database.
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