Code B115, Sun Load Sensor Circuit: Notes

Fig 1: Code B115, Wiring Diagram (Reatta & Riviera) Sun Load Sensor Circuit

Fig 2: Code B115, Wiring Diagram (Toronado) Sun Load Sensor Circuit

The sun load sensor is a thermistor that controls signal voltage to BCM. The BCM applies and monitors voltage on circuit No. 590 to sensor. When sensor is cold, its resistance is high, therefore, BCM will see a high monitored voltage. As sensor warms, its resistance becomes less and monitored voltage is pulled low through sensor ground, circuit No. 736. This monitored voltage will vary between 5 volts (open circuit) and zero volts (shorted circuit).

Code B115 will set if ignition is on, outside temperature sensor has not failed and reads greater than 32°F (0°C), and signal voltage indicates less than -29°F (-34°C), which is open circuit voltage, or greater than 209°F (85°C), which is shorted circuit voltage. During time failure is present, a substitute temperature reading will be used to allow continued operation of climate control system. The sun load temperature reading BD32 display will indicate actual sensor reading.

1. Checks to see if open circuit reading is due to circuit or sensor. If open circuit reading changes to a shorted circuit reading after jumping sensor terminals, BCM and wiring are okay.
2. By applying a ground to various points in circuits, an open can be isolated by observing whether parameter display can be changed from open reading to shorted reading.
3. Checks to see if shorted circuit reading is due to circuit or sensor. If shorted circuit reading changes to an open circuit reading after disconnecting sensor, BCM and wiring are okay.