Solar Sensor: Description and Operation

The solar sensors are light sensitive photo-diodes which monitor the heat load of the sun on the vehicle. There are two solar sensors utilized by the dual zone (CJ2) A/C system, one right and one left. The sensors are located on top of the instrument panel, one on each side, mounted under the defroster grill where sunlight can reach them. The Pontiac system (C68) uses only one solar sensor.

The HVAC programmer compares the solar sensor readings to the inside temperature reading and then determines how much cooling is required to reach and maintain the desired SET temperature on each side of the vehicle.

Operation of the solar sensor will be effected it is covered. To ensure proper operation, make sure that there is no obstruction of sunlight to the sensor.