P0537: A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
The evaporator temperature sensor signal voltage is below the lower diagnostic threshold. Indicates a short to ground or sensor fault.
What P0537 means
P0537 is a generic OBD-II powertrain code in the emissions group. In plain English: the computer sees a voltage on that circuit that is lower than it should ever be — often a short to ground, an open, or a failed sensor.
- Check engine light
- Usually off
- Emissions-related
- No
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
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Common causes
- 01Sensor internally shortedMost likely
- 02Signal wire shorted to groundPossible
- 03Connector pins corroded - high contact resistanceLess likely
Can I drive with P0537?
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 P0537
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just P0537. 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 P0535, 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: Sensor internally shorted; signal wire shorted to ground; connector pins corroded - high contact resistance. 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.
P0537 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
- Easy
- Good DIY job?
- Yes, with a scan tool
Basic hand tools; a common first DIY job.
Parts and systems involved
- A/C evaporator temp sensor
- Sensor wiring
P0537 FAQ
What does P0537 mean?
P0537 means “A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor Circuit Low”. The evaporator temperature sensor signal voltage is below the lower diagnostic threshold. Indicates a short to ground or sensor fault.
Is P0537 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate P0537 as low severity. Generally yes. This fault is unlikely to affect how the car drives. Fix it when convenient.
What causes P0537?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Sensor internally shorted; Signal wire shorted to ground; Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix P0537?
Typical labor is about $40–$190 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 P0537 myself?
DIY difficulty is easy. Many owners can handle it with a scan tool, a multimeter and basic hand tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will P0537 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.