AC and external thermometer not working

[Rig]

I was happily driving with a nicely working air conditioner in my 2006 Jetta when I noticed that the external temperature sensor stopped working and just read " ----". Shortly afterward, the AC stopped cooling the air.

I've looked at all the fuses identified in the manual as being related to the AC, and they all seem OK.

What else could it be? The sensor seems to be necessary for the compressor to turn on.

 

[relumalutan]

Check the sensor and its wiring. It's located in front of the radiator on the lower driver side. 6th picture on this link:
https://www.myturbodiesel.com/wiki/vw-jetta-front-radiator-support-carrier-removal-and-replacement/

 

[narongc73]

Sounds like you need to check or replace the ambient air temp sensor. Not sure where it's located. Only ever replaced one on a Saab.

 

[oilhammer]

Yep, down low in front... you can sort of see it through the lower grill, driver's side slightly off center.

Sometimes the wires get chaffed and rub through from crashes with curbs and such, you can take the bumper cover off and access the whole harness to the sensor. Super easy.