Matrix XR 2010 outside temp sensor off by 2 celsius

[clepeterd]

My outside temp sensor reading is always off by 2 degrees C.

Ex: it's -18 outside, it shows -16, it's 20 outside, it shows 22

Most of the time, it's off by 2 degrees, rarely by 1. Dealership tells me it's normal and they won't change it. My girlfrieds corolla temp sensor has always be accurate.

Anyone else noticed that problem with the 2010 XR ?

Thanks

[gisbe]

I have the same problem and sometimes it's up to 5 degrees over. I'll ask the dealer to replace the sensor. It's easy to change because it's located in front of the radiator just under the horn. It must be the same sensor on every model because i have the 1.8 engine.

[clepeterd]

My dealer told me it was "normal" and won't change it. Tell me what yours will do and if it fixes the problem. Thanks

[MTL Road Runner]

I own a 2010 Matrix Xr and it also has the 2-3 degrees difference above the actual temperature. But it doesn't really bother me.

[Gumby1800]

My exterior temperature reading is always bang-on with local weather reports.

The only time it registers somewhat warmer is when the car has been sitting for some time in the sun. This is only to be expected as there is a significant amount of heat radiated from the metal of the car to the sensor. Once I drive a bit it returns to the outside air temp.

Theory:

Could it be that darker colours radiate more heat to the sensor?
My Matrix is Sundance, a relatively light colour. Could that be why my temp readings are more accurate?

Do you folks with the higher temp readings have darker coloured paint?

[silver04rollas]

I think it is normal. I get about 2 - 3 C off compared to most electric billboards.

However, sometimes I noticed my car's thermometer is more accurate than those electric billboards (verified through 'weathernetwork.com').

[stef_XRS]

I agree with the darker colour theory. Our Black Tundra in the summer can be out 20 degrees at startup and returns to about 2-3 degrees higher once you start driving a bit.

My Matrix is Magnetic Grey and it seems accurate on overcast days but hot and sunny days has been out a few degrees, not enough for me to worry about it.

[silver04rollas]

That is normal.

Whenever in the summer I get back after getting out of my office, the sensor heats up on a stationary parked car and when you start driving, about 10 - 15 minutes after that it shows a more accurate reading.

Originally Posted by stef_XRS

I agree with the darker colour theory. Our Black Tundra in the summer can be out 20 degrees at startup and returns to about 2-3 degrees higher once you start driving a bit.

My Matrix is Magnetic Grey and it seems accurate on overcast days but hot and sunny days has been out a few degrees, not enough for me to worry about it.