Does anyone know if the outside temperature display can be calibrated? Mine seems to be reading several degress high. Seems worse the higher the temperature. For example when the outside temperature is say 75 (according to several sources) the display will show 79 or 80. Today is was 105 in Phoenix and my display was showing 112. I noticed all last summer it was reading several degress too high.
Outside air temperature calibration
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I may have found the answer in other posts. It appears the temperature sensor is very low to the ground. Living in Phoenix, temperature near the ground (asphalt) is most likely hotter than the surrounding air, which obviously explains why mine is reading high. Also explains why the temperature difference is greater in higher temperatures.
So, do you guys think that is whats gong on here?
So, do you guys think that is whats gong on here?
That has been my understanding on most cars with outside temp sensors. Apparently many manufacturers mount them somewhere near the front bumper. I know my parents had a BMW where the sensor was obviously located in the bumper (you could see it) and if it had water in the opening such as after a car wash, it definitely gave an incorrect reading. As for a calibration, I think they're "permanently calibrated" which is unfortunate but I suppose if you have a general idea how far off it is given a particular reading it makes it easier to tell a more accurate reading.
The real purpose of the outside air temp sensor is to calculate the correct fuel/ air mixture, so it reads the air intake temperature, which is affected by heat on the roadway and possibly from around the engine (less of a problem with a Volt). That's bound to vary from the weather report. The two values are probably closest before you leave your driveway.
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