E171.03

Massey Ferguson E171.03 – Engine ECU: Ambient Temperature Sensor Voltage Issue

Issue description

The signal voltage from the ambient air temperature sensor is exceeding the expected normal range, typically caused by an open circuit in the sensor wiring, a disconnected sensor, a short to a power source, or an internally failed sensor.

Applies to these machines

  • 7616
  • 5612
  • 7622
  • Interim Tier 4 (2012-2015)
  • 7614
  • 5611
  • 7615
  • 5610
  • 5613
  • 7620
  • 5609
  • 7618
  • 5608
  • 7619
  • 7626
  • 7624
  • 4707
  • 4708
  • 4709
  • 4710
  • 5710SL
  • 5711SL
  • 5712SL
  • 5713SL
  • 7714
  • 7715
  • 7715S
  • 7716
  • 7716S
  • 7718
  • 7718S
  • 7719
  • 7720
  • 7720S
  • 7722
  • 7722S
  • 7724
  • 7724S
  • 7726
  • 7726S

Check the cause

  1. Visually inspect the ambient temperature sensor and its 2-pin oval connector for corrosion, moisture, or backed-out pins

  2. Check the wiring harness for an open circuit (broken wire) or a short to a voltage source between the sensor and the ECU

  3. Disconnect the sensor and measure its resistance with a multimeter (an infinite resistance reading indicates the NTC thermistor has failed internally)

  4. With the key ON and the sensor disconnected, check the connector for the 5V reference signal from the ECU

Repair steps

  1. Turn off the tractor ignition and disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical spikes.

    Ensure the tractor is completely powered down before beginning electrical work.

  2. Locate the ambient air temperature sensor.

    Typically mounted near the front grille, air intake path, or exterior cab depending on the exact model.

  3. Depress the locking tab on the 2-pin oval electrical connector and pull it free from the sensor.

    Disconnect the wiring harness from the sensor.

  4. Remove the faulty sensor.

    These are typically pressed into a mounting bracket or secured with a simple retaining clip.

  5. Press the new OEM replacement sensor into the mounting location.

    Ensure the sensor is securely seated in its bracket or clip.

  6. Reconnect the electrical harness, ensuring it clicks securely into place.

    Verify the 2-pin oval connector is fully engaged.

  7. Reconnect the battery.

    Restore power to the tractor.

  8. Turn the ignition ON and use a diagnostic scan tool to clear the E171.03 fault code from the Engine ECU.

    Start the tractor and verify the code does not return.

Parts you might need

(4)
  • Ambient Temperature Sensor / Outside Air Temperature Sensor

    3714264M1

    2-pin oval connector, black plastic housing, press-fit mounting.

  • Ambient Temperature Sensor

    6PT 009 104-011

    HELLA aftermarket cross-reference

  • Ambient Temperature Sensor

    01840

    FEBI BILSTEIN aftermarket cross-reference

  • Ambient Temperature Sensor

    1186S0002

    RIDEX aftermarket cross-reference

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