2004 PT - P0071 Code

[tjk3030]

Hello All

This is my first post here. I've had my PT since 2004 and no problems at all, I've added the Nav system, subwoofer, cd changer etc. I've been very happy with it, I cant understand how Chrylser kinda left it die on the vines these past dew years. Wasn't it a one point, their biggest seller??

Anyways:

Well as soon as my extended warranty ran out, 6 weeks ago, when I started the car up on a cold morning, I'm in Atlanta, the engine light came on.

The local parts store checked the obc code & came up with a P0071. Googling it, its a ambient air temp problem & suggested replacing the sensor. The local dealership gave me part nbr 5293138AA & so bought one. However on removing the old one & comparing it to the new one, the are different in appearence. On the old one the tip is exposed & I can see some sort of blue electronic component, on the new one, the tip is enclosed in plastic & cant see anything.
Questions I have:
1. Is this the correct part? It was cheap - $8 & easy to install.
2. I installed the new part, on the hose going to the airbox but the engine light is stayed on. Does it need to be reset? The parts store say its illegal for them to reset the codes etc. The last guy I know who had a code reader, he's laid off too & left town. so out of luck that way.
3. Should I give the idea of fixing it myself up(I've been laid off my job, so money is real tight) and take it to the dealer? I've always relied on the dealer for all maintenance & normally would just take it there, but times are tough for me right now.
4. Will driving with it on awhile hurt the engine?

Any help, would sure be appreciated

Tim

[imthemoose]

not sure on the part but im a ford mechanic and you could try disconnecting the battery for 5 -10 minutes and se if that clears the check engine light.that works on most ford vehicles.good luck

[tjk3030]

Gotta love Ford mechanics. did exactly what you said & engine light is now off.

MANY THANKS

Tim

[CREWZIN]

Tim,

Welcome to the forum. Take the plastic cap off. The blue tips (very sensitive) should be exposed to the incoming air. The plastic is only there to protect the sensor before installing it. Be careful re-installing it after you take the plastic cap off.

[tjk3030]

I've looked at the part very closely, it looks like just all one molded piece. The part nbr on the dealer invoice is 5293138-AA Sensor AI 8037155.

I did disconnect the battery & the check engine light is off.

So not sure what to do at this time????

[quicksilverdon]

I'd wait to see if check engine light comes back before doing anything.

[CREWZIN]

Tim,

I take it back. QSD is right. Leave it alone. I was thinking of a different sensor that goes into the air filter measuring the air coming into the throttle body (blue tip on mine) and yours is the sensor measuring outside air that's in front of the radiator. Mine is covered also.