The temperatures that users often observe on their car’s display are typically… not the actual outside temperature, even though the system may suggest otherwise.
Most modern car models on the market today come equipped with a small area that displays the outside temperature, usually on the dashboard. However, according to research by the YouTube channel The Weather Channel, the number shown there does not accurately reflect the actual outside temperature.
The reason for the discrepancy between the displayed temperature and the actual temperature is that cars do not use traditional mercury thermometers to measure temperature. Instead, they employ a device known as a “Thermistor” – a type of temperature sensor with a fairly complex operating mechanism. These sensors utilize changes in electrical current as temperature varies to relay data to the system.
Users should remember that the temperature displayed in front of them is often higher than the actual outside temperature, which is essential for making accurate decisions, to avoid unfortunate situations such as underestimating the cold and impacting their health. (Photo: Jalopnik).
In reality, this type of sensor… is quite accurate, not to mention its low cost and compact size. The issue arises from the placement of the sensor. They are typically installed by manufacturers at the front of the vehicle on the radiator or inside the grille area. This causes the sensor to measure heat radiating from both the engine and the rising temperature from the ground.
For this reason, on hot sunny days with already high daytime temperatures, the temperature measured by the sensor can be up to 10 degrees higher than the actual temperature.
While the discrepancy in the measured outside temperature may not significantly affect everyday users, it is crucial for users to pay attention to this issue during the cold season as it can lead to serious consequences. An outside temperature that is 10 degrees lower than reported can lead users to underestimate the cold and face serious repercussions.
