Code B115, Sun Load Sensor Circuit: Notes

The sun load sensor is a thermistor that controls the signal voltage to the BCM. The BCM applies and monitors voltage on circuit No. 590 to the sensor. When the sensor is cold, its resistance is high, therefore, the BCM will see a high monitored voltage. As the sensor warms, its resistance becomes less and the monitored voltage is pulled low through the 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 the ignition is on, the outside temperature sensor has not failed and reads greater than 32°F (0°C), and the signal voltage indicates less than -29°F (-34°C), which is open circuit voltage, or over 209°F (85°C), which is shorted circuit voltage. During the time the failure is present, a substitute temperature reading will be used to allow continued operation of the climate control system. The sun load temperature reading BD32 will, however, display the actual sensor reading.

1. BCM data value BD32 displays sun load temperature. The normal range is from -29°F (-34°C) to 209°F (85°F).
2. Checks to see if the open circuit reading is due to the circuit or the sensor. If the open circuit reading changes to a shorted circuit reading after jumping the sensor terminals, the BCM and wiring are okay.
3. By applying a ground to various points in the circuits, an open can be isolated by observing whether the parameter display can be changed from the open reading to the shorted reading.
4. Checks to see if the shorted circuit reading is due to the circuit or the sensor. If the shorted circuit reading changes to an open circuit reading after disconnecting the sensor, the BCM and wiring are okay.