The evaporator temperature sensor, an NTC thermistor behind the evaporator, prevents icing: near 0–3 °C the compressor is switched off or reduced. Usually the climate module reads it and reports body codes; P0535–P0539 only arise where the engine module controls the compressor and reads the sensor. P0536 means the signal is valid but implausible – for example it differs from other temperature sensors after standstill, or does not drop after compressor engagement. Hella compares it with the cabin sensor with A/C off. Icing protection then works wrongly. No manufacturer document available to us uses this code; the description follows CARB's input component rules.
Low severity. Can I keep driving?Yes, you can keep driving. The air conditioning may not work.
Symptoms
- Fluctuating or weak cooling
- Evaporator icing
- Compressor switching off too early
Most likely causes
- Sensor drifting
- Sensor not seated correctly in the evaporator
- Refrigerant shortage or compressor fault
- Contact resistance in the connector
What to check, in order
Start with the simplest. You can tick off each step.
Good to know
- Repair difficulty: medium
What each character of P0536 means
- P: Powertrain: engine and transmission
- 0: Generic code: same on every make
- 5: Speed and idle
- 36: Specific fault in that system
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with code P0536?
Yes, you can keep driving. The air conditioning may not work.
What causes code P0536?
The most common causes are: sensor drifting; sensor not seated correctly in the evaporator; refrigerant shortage or compressor fault.
Related codes
- P0535A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor Circuit
- P0537A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0538A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor Circuit High
- P0539A/C Evaporator Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- P0534A/C Refrigerant Charge Loss
Sources
Values and procedures vary by manufacturer. If it affects brakes, steering, fuel or high voltage, see a professional. Updated: 2026-11-04. How we build these pages.