P0535: A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor Circuit
The evaporator temperature sensor signal is missing or out of range. Used to prevent icing of the evaporator core.
What P0535 means
P0535 is a generic OBD-II powertrain code in the emissions group. In plain English: the computer found an electrical fault in that circuit: an open, short or bad connection, or a failed component.
- Check engine light
- Usually off
- Emissions-related
- No
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
Post this code once and get quotes from local mechanics. Free to post.
Makes the repair and parts links below specific to your car. Kept in this browser only.
Common causes
- 01Evaporator temp sensor defectiveMost likely
- 02Wiring or connector faultPossible
Can I drive with P0535?
Generally yes.
This fault is unlikely to affect how the car drives. Fix it when convenient.
Why we rate it low
- Does not normally turn on the check engine light
- EVAP leaks rarely affect how the car drives
Severity is our rule-based rating from the code’s flags in OBDex and the system it affects, not an inspection of your car. If the check engine light is flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, stop driving and get help.
How to diagnose P0535
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just P0535. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Check for related codes first
Look for P0537, P0538. Related codes often share a cause; a circuit or sensor code usually needs fixing before a performance code like this one.
- 3
Test the circuit
Inspect the wiring and connector at the a/c evaporator temp sensor and sensor wiring for damage, corrosion or chafing. With a multimeter, check supply voltage, ground and signal against the specifications in the service manual for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: Evaporator temp sensor defective; wiring or connector fault. Test before replacing parts.
- 5
Check for recalls and service bulletins
Look up recalls for your exact vehicle with its VIN, and ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs). Manufacturers sometimes issue software updates or extended warranties for known faults.
- 6
Clear the code and verify the repair
After the repair, clear the code and drive the car under the conditions in the freeze-frame data to confirm it does not return.
P0535 repair cost estimate
Estimate, not a quote. Labor times are typical ranges for this code from OBDex, and $125/hr is an assumed rate. Shop rates and labor times vary by vehicle and region. Diagnosis time may be billed separately.
- DIY difficulty
- Moderate
- Good DIY job?
- Usually a shop job
Needs a scan tool and some experience with testing.
Parts and systems involved
- A/C evaporator temp sensor
- Sensor wiring
P0535 FAQ
What does P0535 mean?
P0535 means “A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor Circuit”. The evaporator temperature sensor signal is missing or out of range. Used to prevent icing of the evaporator core.
Is P0535 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate P0535 as low severity. Generally yes. This fault is unlikely to affect how the car drives. Fix it when convenient.
What causes P0535?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Evaporator temp sensor defective; Wiring or connector fault. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix P0535?
Typical labor is about $65–$250 at an assumed $125/hour shop rate, plus parts. That is an estimate, not a quote: labor times and rates vary by vehicle and region, and diagnosis may be billed separately.
Can I fix P0535 myself?
DIY difficulty is moderate. Most owners leave this to a shop because it needs involved testing or specialist tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will P0535 clear itself?
If the fault was intermittent, the warning may go off once the computer stops seeing it, but the code stays in memory. Fix the cause; clearing the code alone doesn’t repair anything.